This lovely Kokeshi is called Tasogare (黄昏) which literally translates to Twilight, but her English title is Dusk. She was one of my first Kokeshi, and she was made by Woody Craft Usaburō.
She is egg-shaped, or tamago-gata (たまご型), and wears a pink kimono with stylised clematis blossoms, they are called Kazamaguruma (風車) which is specifically a wild climbing clematis (Clematis patens) – the literal translation of kazamaguruma is pinwheel. Each flower consists of four pointed, teardrop-shaped white petals outlined subtly in red. The centre features a distinct circular maroon core surrounded by a golden-yellow ring, giving it a striking geometric contrast.
Symbolism:
- In Japanese culture, the clematis signifies mental beauty, creativity, and ingenuity
- The kazamaguruma is believed to deflect negative energy, illness, and evil spirits, and are said to protect children
- Kazamaguruma are linked to Buddhism, and are seen at many temples, especially those dedicated to Jizō (the guardian deity of children and travellers)
Specifications:
Height: 12 centimetres
Weight: 280 grams
Material:
Mizuki (Giant dogwood)