Large Pair of Japanese Sōsaku Kokeshi Dolls by Watanabe Masao

A striking large pair of Japanese Sōsaku kokeshi dolls by Watanabe Masao (1917–2007), a well-regarded mid-20th-century maker. Hand-turned from solid wood and finished in deep lacquered tones with subtle red detailing, these dolls have strong sculptural presence and a calm, minimalist expression typical of creative kokeshi work. Each base is signed Watanabe Masao, bears a red artist’s seal, and one of the pair is dated 7 June 1972. The dolls are titled Shōen, meaning “Pine Garden.” An attractive, well-matched pair that displays beautifully and appeals to both collectors and interior buyers.