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Beautiful Kokeshi Dolls: A Uniquely Japanese Folk Art

Zao - Bikkuri Me Dolls (Surprised Eyes)


Published: Aug. 6, 2009 Modified: Feb. 11, 2025

These are from the Zao- Shiroishi onsen (hot springs) and have the characteristic surprised eyes. Very cute.
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Photo of Zao-Bikkuri Me-style kokeshi dolls from the collection of Itske and Anthony Stern. This photo was presented during a public program, Kokeshi: Not Just a Toy!, at the Japanese American National Museum on July 25, 2009 in conjunction with the Kokeshi: From Folk Art to Art Toy exhibition on display from July 11 through October 4, 2009.

Accompanying text from the original PowerPoint slide:

These are from the Zao- Shiroishi onsen (hot springs) and have the characteristic surprised eyes. Very cute.

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COPYRIGHT 2005 - ITSKE STERN


arts dolls exhibitions folk art Japanese American National Museum Japanese American National Museum (organization) kokeshi dolls Miyagi Prefecture traditions Zao Zao bikkuri me kokeshi

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Beautiful Kokeshi Dolls: A Uniquely Japanese Folk Art
Take a fresh look at the traditional and iconic Japanese kokeshi folk toy by exploring its origins and history. This collection of photographs documents pieces from the extensive private collection of Itske and Anthony Stern. The photos an…
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