Sansaku Sekiguch is often seen as the highest regarded kokeshi master so far. He was born in Shibukawa city and began his artistic career as a painter. Between 1951 to 1957 he was trained as a traditional kokeshi artist. From 1958 onward, he devoted himself entirely to creating Sosaku Kokeshi.

Sansaku is the only artist so far who has been certified as a ‘Master of Modern Kokeshi’ by the Japanese Government. The list of awards he has won with his kokeshi art is long. It is estimated that he has won awards for more than 50 of his kokeshi. 

Sansaku is the only artist who has his own museum in Gunma Prefecture where a substantial part of his work is on display. One of his dolls is also on permanent display at the Kerkira Oriental Art Museum in Greece.

Sansaku has two sons, Toa and Toshio, and one daughter Izumi. All three are now also respected kokeshi Masters. 

Available Kokeshi Art by Sansaku Sekiguchi: