[Stories of Creation] - Episode 1
The Uaburo Kokeshi Story
Usaburo Kokeshi was started in 1955. Learn about their journeys and how a Usaburo Kokeshi is wonderfully handmade from scratch.
→ We provide world wide deliveries. To order, go to
www.wonderfullymadeinjapan.com
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0:40 - How a Kokeshi is made
2:03 - What are the unique features of a Usaburo Kokeshi
3:08 - Interview with Yoshihiro Okamoto - third generation kokeshi master
4:07 - Interview with Hiroyuki Okamoto - younger brother of Yoshihiro
4:26 - The Kokechi series
4:58 - Difference between a kokeshi and a kokechi
5:25 - Hiroyuki's plans for the future
What is a kokeshi?
Kokeshi dolls originated from the Tohoku regions of Japan, during the Edo period. They were handmade of wood and were called different names in different parts of Japan. Since the beginning of the Showa period, they were known as "Kokeshi こけし".
Today, Gunma Prefecture is the production center of creative kokeshi dolls, which boasts the highest production in Japan. The basic shape of the kokeshi doll completed by Usaburo is a plump and rounded body on the bob head. The uniqueness lies in the eyes of a kokeshi - it is hand drawn in a single brush stroke.
Usaburo Kokeshi is about 2.5 hours drive from Tokyo, located near Ikaho onsen village. You can paint kokeshi there and take a tour around their workshop.
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→ We provide world wide deliveries. To order, go to
www.wonderfullymadeinjapan.com
→ Keen to visit their workshop in Gunma? We can bring you there! Reach us at
contact@wm-tabi.com
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At WonderfullymadeinJapan, we are “物作りmonozukuri” admirers and lovers of creativity. We seek out the masters behind refined and delicate craftsmanship to bring you their treasures and stories first-hand.
We believe wholeheartedly that God is the master Creator. And all works by God are WonderfullyMade. Therefore, because we are wonderfully made, so are the crafts we bring to you, made by the calloused hands of these dedicated craftsmen.
Wonderfullymade is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.
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