Ostravské muzeum

Kokeshi

The dolls on display were made almost 200 years apart, yet both forms symbolise a culture that preserves its distinctive character despite the pressures of the modern world.

Kokeshi dolls were originally used as massage tools in onsen (Japanese hot spring baths). Over time, they began to be decorated, becoming works of art. Although their shape has changed slightly across different periods, the basic concept of the kokeshi doll remains the same.

It was only after the Second World War, when American troops were stationed in Japan, that a new version of the doll appeared, featuring hair and, later, an ornate kimono. According to legend, this was the work of a sergeant in the US Navy. He wanted to bring his daughter a toy from Japan, but felt that the kokeshi did not look enough like a doll, so he carved hair for it and painted on clothing. This style became popular in America and eventually found its way back to Japan. Americans called it the “Kokeshi Doll”, and today it can be found in souvenir shops throughout Japan. Although this version is not an original Japanese design, it is very popular with tourists.