A vintage Daruma Kokeshi doll from Nasu Onsen, a historic hot spring town in Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. Handcrafted in the Nasu style, this wooden doll blends the stoic determination of the Daruma with the rustic charm of regional kokeshi craftsmanship.
The body is smoothly turned and left in its natural wood tone, showcasing rich vertical grain patterns with minimal finishing, a typical of Nasu kokeshi, which favor simplicity and earthy warmth over bright ornamentation. The head is a rounded plug that fits tightly into the top of the body, featuring a hand-painted face with exaggerated features: thick black brows, wide white eyes gazing upward, a downturned red mouth, and expressive lines evoking both seriousness and resilience.
This Daruma expression is deeply symbolic, representing Bodhidharma, the monk who meditated for nine years, and whose image is now a cultural icon of persistence. The minimalistic design reflects the quiet, contemplative atmosphere of Nasu Onsen, where such dolls are often sold as souvenirs of encouragement and protection. Traditionally, one eye is painted in when a goal is set, and the other upon achieving it—making this more than just a decorative piece, but a personal talisman of perseverance.
