Authentic Vintage Nanbu Kokeshi – Morizo Susumago (Hanamaki Style)

Unique collector's item — once sold, definitively not available again. This authentic Dento Kokeshi from the Nanbu lineage was crafted by the respected third-generation master Morizo Susumago (1950–present) of the renowned Kobo Dekunobo workshop in Hanamaki. The object combines the traditional Kina-Kina construction with exceptionally rich floral painting, a combination that is relatively rare within the Nanbu tradition.

With its elegant tapered shape, subtly moving head, and vibrant camellia decoration, this Kokeshi is a special example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and a valuable addition to any serious Kokeshi collection.

• ✓ Authentic Dento Kokeshi: Traditionally crafted within the Nanbu lineage.
• ✓ Renowned master: Handmade and signed by Morizo Susumago (3rd generation).
• ✓ Rare Kina-Kina construction: The traditional loose neck joint allows the head to move subtly.
• ✓ Floral decoration: Hand-painted with colorful camellias (Tsubaki) and leaf motifs.
• ✓ Traditional material: Turned from indigenous Japanese wood.
• ✓ Includes: Official certificate of authenticity from 1stbuddha.

Nanbu Tradition

The Nanbu school from the Hanamaki region is known for its distinctive Kina-Kina dolls. These were originally crafted as toys for children, with the movable neck construction allowing a gentle rocking motion of the head. Today, original examples crafted by masters are among the most beloved collector's items within the Dento Kokeshi tradition.

• Kina-Kina Mechanism: Thanks to the traditional loose neck joint, the head moves slightly when the doll is touched.
• Camellia (Tsubaki): The hand-painted camellia symbolizes beauty, elegance, and the arrival of spring in Japanese culture.
• Kobo Dekunobo Workshop: A renowned atelier in Hanamaki known for high-quality traditional Nanbu Kokeshi.
• Special Edition: While many Nanbu Kokeshi remain unpainted, this example stands out with its rich floral decoration.

Authenticity & Condition

This Kokeshi is in excellent collector's condition and retains both its original mechanical function and its bright painting.

• Original Wood: The wood has a fresh, light appearance without disturbing discoloration.
• Perfectly Working Neck: The traditional Kina-Kina construction functions fully as originally intended.
• Bright Painting: The yellow, red, and green pigments have been excellently preserved.
• Original Signature: The underside bears the handwritten signature of Morizo Susumago.
• Excellent Collector's Condition: Only minimal signs of use consistent with age.

Specifications

• Object: Dento Kokeshi (Hanamaki-style)
• Artist: Morizo Susumago (煤孫盛造)
• Tradition: Nanbu-lineage (南部系)
• Dating: 1980s–1990s
• Material: Indigenous Japanese wood
• Height: 30 cm
• Diameter: 6.5 cm
• Feature: Traditional Kina-Kina neck construction with hand-painted camellias (Tsubaki)
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with perfectly working mechanism and beautiful original painting.

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

Read the shipping policy and the refund policy.

Pay securely at checkout with credit card, Klarna, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The certificate of authenticity and the invoice are included in the price.