Kokeshi (こけし ko-key-she), are Japanese dolls, originally from northern Japan. They are handmade
from wood, have a simple trunk and an enlarged head with a few thin, painted
lines to define the face. The wood is left outdoors to season for one to five
years before it can be used. One characteristic of kokeshi dolls is their lack
of arms or legs. The heads rotate and give a high-pitched squeak.
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Modern: The craftsman
is free
to create the colors, facial features, and designs.
(http://msnyder.typepad.com/the_labyrinth/images/2008/05/30/kokeshi2.jpg)
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They are a popular souvenir. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kokeshi_exhibit_at_Seattle_Nihon_Go_Gakko_02.jpg) |
Information from Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kokeshi)