Kokeshi - Japanese Wooden Dolls - are traditionally simple in construction, made of wood, and shaped with a cylindrical body and round head. They originated as a child's toy in the Tohiku region of northern Japan. Kokeshi are usually limbless and painted in bright floral designs, kimono, or in other traditional patters. Kokeshi is now recognized as one of the traditional folk arts in Japan. Reference: http://www.jun-gifts.com/specialcollections/dolls/dolls9/dolls9.htm