A Vintage wood carving Daruma. Japanese Buddhist figurine from Hakone Gora 箱根強羅. Located in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. The area was originally a barren wasteland covered with rocks, and was named "Gora" because of its resemblance to turtle shells. The Daruma doll traces its origins to Bodhidharma, who, according to legend, meditated for nine years at Shaolin Temple, causing his limbs to atrophy. During the Edo period, Japan suffered the Tenmei Great Famine, severely affecting Takasaki. In response, Master Dong Yue carved the first “Dharma Tumbler” doll, inspired by the "One-Stroke Daruma" painting, and taught locals to craft and sell them for both protection and livelihood. By the 19th century, a smallpox epidemic in Edo Castle led to the custom of buying Daruma dolls for good luck. The Daruma’s resilience—its ability to right itself after being knocked over—symbolizes the famous saying “fall down seven times, get up eight” (七転び八起き, Nanakorobi Yaoki), making it a symbol of perseverance and recovery. Today, the ritual of buying and painting a Daruma remains a cherished tradition in Japan, especially during festivals and New Year celebrations. More than a lucky charm, the Daruma embodies determination, resilience, and the timeless connection between past and present. Size: 5 x 5 x 8.5 cm
