Set of five collectible kokeshi dolls - Shōwa era

A collection of five handmade Japanese kokeshi dolls, representing both the traditional regional trend (dentō kokeshi) and the artistic style of sōsaku kokeshi (freeform). Two compositions are from the Gunma region (Haruna-ko and Kusatsu). They are miniature genre scenes, made of wood and decorated with fabric, placed on oval bases with preserved tree bark. The first depicts three figures during the whipping of mochitsuki rice, a traditional New Year's ceremony. The second shows a mother with her child (haha to ko), symbolizing family warmth and caring.
Signed with the names of the Haruna-ko and Kusatsu regions, well-known centers of kokeshi making in Gunma Prefecture.

The other three dolls are made in the sōsaku style - individual, artistic interpretations of classic kokeshi. The set includes:
1. raw wood kokeshi with preserved bark and string imitating an obi belt. Head with bun, delicately painted facial features. Signed on the bottom.
2. Kokeshi of stylized form, with simple kimono painting and heavily over-stylized face, stylistically similar to early works of Kishi Sadao.
3rd Kokeshi of classical form, with red maple leaf motif (momiji), closed eyes and simple fringe. Signed in ink and stamped by the artist.

Dating: 1960s-1980s.
Dimensions of doll with three figures beating mochitsuki rice: 10 × 9 cm.
Dimensions of mother and child doll: 18 × 5 cm.
Dimensions of raw wood doll with bark: 20 × 3.5 cm.
Dimensions of doll decorated with maple leaf motif: 25 × 4.5 cm.
Dimensions of Kishi Sadao style doll: 19 × 4 cm.
Authors: unknown, some works signed.