Description
Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Dolls Chess Pieces.
A very nice example of a set of Vintage Japanese Kokeshi Dolls Chess Pieces. The King stand: 3-1/4″ tall with a 1-1/8″ base, elegantly detailed, with crowns and robes Bring a touch of traditional Japanese craftsmanship into your home with this charming vintage Kokeshi chess set. dating to the 1950s–1970s era. This vintage Japanese chess set showcases the whimsical export-era design popular among collectors of mid-century Asian folk art. The lightweight wooden construction makes it ideal for display or casual play, while the unique Kokeshi aesthetic sets it apart from standard Staunton sets.
These hand-painted wooden chess pieces blend the iconic style of authentic Kokeshi dolls – simple, lathe-turned figures originating from Japan’s Tohoku region. Each piece is meticulously crafted and painted by hand, featuring adorable doll-like faces, traditional kimono-inspired patterns, and gradient color schemes (one side in rich purples, the other in vibrant blues). Each piece is marked with its rank for easy identification. The chessboard shown is not included. but a suitable chessboard is provided. Also, a fine selection of chessboards can be found here. These are often referred to as “Toy Sets”. There are a number of related designs, and prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. The chessmen are in excellent condition.
