Vintage Daruma Japanese Kumiki Wood Puzzle | Unknown Craftsmen

Dimension: 3-1/2” dia.

Through generations this form of multi-piece, three-dimensional puzzle, known as Kumaki which means “joining wood together” into a 3D interlocking wood puzzle was handed down through generations as an exciting toy supporting dexterity and mental acuity. With Daruma’s austere, rounded form, intense expression, and distinctive eyebrows, this characteristic figure is not only considered a toy but also a symbol of good fortune, and the ultimate luck, particularly when the puzzle has been cleverly disassembled and then reassembled into its original form.

The Daruma toy was introduced to Japan in the Edo period (1603-1868), becoming a popular historical figure that is still produced in many forms and materials today. Daruma wood puzzles are painstakingly made by hand-cutting each piece to fit in place and then painting the most important image of Daruma’s expressive and determined face. This form of Daruma toy has an unexplainable power to make the player challenge any obstacles that are presented, to achieve one’s dreams and goals.

Condition: Excellent with an aged patina, and natural wood finish, with all parts intact and in place. Sorry no instructions for the original diagram and box were lost but puzzle parts are shown in the photo received upon purchase of the puzzle 34 years ago.