Dento (traditional) style kokeshi by Shinichi Tokunaga
Variation of Dento “Traditional” Style doll by the Tsuchiyu strain kokeshi craftsman Shinichi Tokunaga (1933~ )
Born the eldest son of a farmer in the Tsuchiyu region of Fukushima prefecture, he became a kokeshi artisan apprentice in 1973 and began making dolls himself from around 1975
This rare kokeshi is modeled on one of the Shichifukujin (Seven Lucky Gods), Fukurokuju
Fuku means “happiness” or “good fortune”,Rokumeans “wealth” or “prosperity” and Ju means “longevity“
Fukurokuju is recognized by his exceptionally long domed head which represents wisdom and the accumulation of knowledge
On the front of the body, flanked by red plum blossoms, is the word Ebisu, the name of another Lucky God also associated with wealth and plentiful harvests
On the back of his head, Kanai Anzen meaning “safety in the home”, has also been written
Lifting the head off the body reveals a secret compartment and two pieces of paper contained within:
Firstly, a photocopied handwritten note explaining the use of Enju (Japanese Pagoda Wood) from the mountains of Fukushima and its auspicious qualities in warding off evil, signifying longevity and good relationships
Secondly, a handwritten note seemingly by the craftsman himself as it is stamped in the corner with his seal (the stylised script is difficult to decipher)
Take care when handling as the head sits lightly on the body and not tightly secured
Marked on base with artisan signature
SIZE (Approx.)
DIAMETER (widest point) 10.0CM (2.8") X HEIGHT 24.2CM (9.5")
WEIGHT (without packaging)
712 Grams
CONDITION - VERY GOOD
Some scratches to the body. Smudging to the handwritten “safety in the home” inscription on the back of the head. Overall very good condition.
Vintage, antique and pre-loved items may show some signs of aging or wear. Please inspect the photos carefully before making your purchase.
Please note colours may vary slightly depending on monitor settings.
CARING FOR YOUR KOKESHI
To dust, wipe gently with a dry soft cloth
Avoid touching kokeshi with wet hands as the dye/paint may run
Recommended to keep kokeshi away from direct sunlight to avoid wood from darkening and dye/paint fading
SHIPPING
Free Delivery - please refer to Shipping & Returns for further information.
The Buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes (VAT), or fees that may apply.
Bundle purchases may be shipped in separate parcels due to size, weight, or fragility.
⚠️ US Customers: Japan Post has suspended shipping to the US from end of August 2025. The Tokyotique will resume shipping to the US once this service reopens.
Please note that since August 29, 2025, additional import fees apply to all commercial parcels entering the US.
Tariffs are not included in the item price and must be paid by the customer upon delivery.
Please confirm details with your local customs office.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE KOKESHI
Dento (traditional) style kokeshi by Shinichi Tokunaga
Variation of Dento “Traditional” Style doll by the Tsuchiyu strain kokeshi craftsman Shinichi Tokunaga (1933~ )
Born the eldest son of a farmer in the Tsuchiyu region of Fukushima prefecture, he became a kokeshi artisan apprentice in 1973 and began making dolls himself from around 1975
This rare kokeshi is modeled on one of the Shichifukujin (Seven Lucky Gods), Fukurokuju
Fuku means “happiness” or “good fortune”,Rokumeans “wealth” or “prosperity” and Ju means “longevity“
Fukurokuju is recognized by his exceptionally long domed head which represents wisdom and the accumulation of knowledge
On the front of the body, flanked by red plum blossoms, is the word Ebisu, the name of another Lucky God also associated with wealth and plentiful harvests
On the back of his head, Kanai Anzen meaning “safety in the home”, has also been written
Lifting the head off the body reveals a secret compartment and two pieces of paper contained within:
Firstly, a photocopied handwritten note explaining the use of Enju (Japanese Pagoda Wood) from the mountains of Fukushima and its auspicious qualities in warding off evil, signifying longevity and good relationships
Secondly, a handwritten note seemingly by the craftsman himself as it is stamped in the corner with his seal (the stylised script is difficult to decipher)
Take care when handling as the head sits lightly on the body and not tightly secured
Marked on base with artisan signature
SIZE (Approx.)
DIAMETER (widest point) 10.0CM (2.8") X HEIGHT 24.2CM (9.5")
WEIGHT (without packaging)
712 Grams
CONDITION - VERY GOOD
Some scratches to the body. Smudging to the handwritten “safety in the home” inscription on the back of the head. Overall very good condition.
Vintage, antique and pre-loved items may show some signs of aging or wear. Please inspect the photos carefully before making your purchase.
Please note colours may vary slightly depending on monitor settings.
CARING FOR YOUR KOKESHI
To dust, wipe gently with a dry soft cloth
Avoid touching kokeshi with wet hands as the dye/paint may run
Recommended to keep kokeshi away from direct sunlight to avoid wood from darkening and dye/paint fading
SHIPPING
Free Delivery - please refer to Shipping & Returns for further information.
The Buyer is responsible for any import duties, taxes (VAT), or fees that may apply.
Bundle purchases may be shipped in separate parcels due to size, weight, or fragility.
⚠️ US Customers: Japan Post has suspended shipping to the US from end of August 2025. The Tokyotique will resume shipping to the US once this service reopens.
Please note that since August 29, 2025, additional import fees apply to all commercial parcels entering the US.
Tariffs are not included in the item price and must be paid by the customer upon delivery.
Please confirm details with your local customs office.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE KOKESHI
Image 1 of 18
Image 2 of 18
Image 3 of 18
Image 4 of 18
Image 5 of 18
Image 6 of 18
Image 7 of 18
Image 8 of 18
Image 9 of 18
Image 10 of 18
Image 11 of 18
Image 12 of 18
Image 13 of 18
Image 14 of 18
Image 15 of 18
Image 16 of 18
Image 17 of 18
Image 18 of 18