The Kokeshi of Nakanosawa and the Eccentric Genius of Iwamoto Zenkichi

In the world of traditional Japanese Kokeshi, some schools stand out for their unique style and fascinating history. Among them, the Nakanosawa school has an origin that is anything but conventional: its founder, Iwamoto Zenkichi (岩本善吉, 1877-1934), was not only a skilled craftsman but also a man of eclectic personality, leaving a lasting impact on the world of Kokeshi.

An Unconventional Master

It is said that Zenkichi was a great entertainer, captivating audiences with performances of dance and acrobatics. One of his most famous acts was the “Sakasa Kappore” (逆さカッポレ), an upside-down version of a traditional folk dance, performed with acrobatics and a mask with a wide-eyed, bewildered expression.

It is no surprise that the Kokeshi of the Nakanosawa school inherited this spirit: their wide, round eyes, their expressive faces, and a theatrical energy that sets them apart.

The Kokeshi of Nakanosawa: From Variant to Official School

The dolls created by Zenkichi and his apprentices are known for their unmistakable expressions and their evocative nickname: “蛸坊主” (Takobōzu, the Octopus Monk).
Their design features:
Large, round eyes, as if always surprised or curious.
A slender body, often decorated with floral patterns.
A quirky yet charming look, just like their creator.

For a long time, the Nakanosawa school was considered a variant of the Tsuchiyu school, due to the strong influence of Sato Kakichi (佐藤嘉吉) and the traditional woodworking techniques of the region. Only recently has it been officially recognized as one of the 12 traditional Kokeshi schools, finally earning the status it deserves for its unique style and fascinating history.

Today, the artisans of the Nakanosawa school continue this tradition, keeping alive the memory of Zenkichi and his unmistakable style.

A Nakanosawa Kokeshi

The Kokeshi I am presenting is the work of one of the apprentices of the Nakanosawa school, crafted in accordance with tradition. Its wide-eyed expression, thick straight eyebrows, and overall balance between innocence and mystery make it a special piece for collectors and Kokeshi enthusiasts. The body decoration also reflects the colors and quick brushstrokes characteristic of Iwamoto-san’s dolls: the red shoulders, the striped obi of varying thickness, and the swift, wave-like brushstroke.

This Kokeshi is not just a decorative object, but a piece of Japanese history—an homage to a master who knew how to turn art into performance.

At least one doll from this school is a must-have in any serious collection! Here are the details.

Further Reading

If you’d like to explore more about Nakanosawa Kokeshi and the story of Iwamoto Zenkichi, I recommend visiting KokeshiWiki, a valuable source of information and historical images.