Vintage Japanese Daruma (Bodhidharma) Okimono

Dimensions: 2-3/4”h x 2-3/8” dia.

Many religious Okimono figures such as this take the shape of various aspects of Japanese traditions and the Shinto faith. One of the most prominent examples is this Daruma doll in the effigy of Bodhidharma (Daruma), a monk who began the Zen school of Buddhism. Daruma dolls such as the offered piece are used and cherished as a symbol of good luck and future fortune noted in the script on the front of his robe. 

Here we see his open stern and expressive eyes peer out from his “white” outlined and topped with heavy eyebrows that are said to be shaped like the outline of the Japanese crane and represent longevity. His mouth is emphasized in red. After the turning and carving the cherry wood figure was finished with a type of natural candle wax,(Rosoku no ro). The piece has the title and artist's stamp signature on the bottom.

Condition: Original excellent undamaged condition exhibiting an aged patination and meticulous care with minimal imperfections related to daily use. “As is” means the object has not been restored and retains the original craftsmanship with minimal age deterioration.