Dento (traditional) style kokeshi by Fukuju Yusa
Vintage Dento “Traditional” Style Kokeshi from the 1980s
Fukuju Yusa (1930–2001) was born into a prominent kokeshi artisan family from Naruko, Miyagi Prefecture
At age nine, his family moved to Akita Prefecture, and as a teenager he trained in woodworking under his kokeshi craftsman father, Sakari Takahashi, eventually making dolls himself
After the war, the family returned to Naruko, and in 1957 he was adopted into another well-known kokeshi artisan family, taking on the name “Yusa”
Around this time, he also began producing Sousaku “Creative” style kokeshi and went on to win the Prime Minister’s Award in 1960
Naruko type kokeshi typically feature a melon-shaped head, a sturdy body often decorated with chrysanthemum patterns, and a distinctive squeaking sound when the head is twisted, due to the way it is inserted into the body
Marked on base: artisan signature “Fukuju”, dated January 4th, Showa 59 (1984)
SIZE (Approx.)
DIAMETER 7.0CM (2.8") X HEIGHT 24.6CM (9.7")
WEIGHT (without packaging)
355 Grams
CONDITION - VERY GOOD
Some minimal damage to top of head, faint patina on face from sun exposure, and light ink transfer around left eye area. 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.
Dento (traditional) style kokeshi by Fukuju Yusa
Vintage Dento “Traditional” Style Kokeshi from the 1980s
Fukuju Yusa (1930–2001) was born into a prominent kokeshi artisan family from Naruko, Miyagi Prefecture
At age nine, his family moved to Akita Prefecture, and as a teenager he trained in woodworking under his kokeshi craftsman father, Sakari Takahashi, eventually making dolls himself
After the war, the family returned to Naruko, and in 1957 he was adopted into another well-known kokeshi artisan family, taking on the name “Yusa”
Around this time, he also began producing Sousaku “Creative” style kokeshi and went on to win the Prime Minister’s Award in 1960
Naruko type kokeshi typically feature a melon-shaped head, a sturdy body often decorated with chrysanthemum patterns, and a distinctive squeaking sound when the head is twisted, due to the way it is inserted into the body
Marked on base: artisan signature “Fukuju”, dated January 4th, Showa 59 (1984)
SIZE (Approx.)
DIAMETER 7.0CM (2.8") X HEIGHT 24.6CM (9.7")
WEIGHT (without packaging)
355 Grams
CONDITION - VERY GOOD
Some minimal damage to top of head, faint patina on face from sun exposure, and light ink transfer around left eye area. 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.
