ADVENT DARUMA SNOWMAN

Advent Calendar Day 2

 
EA1956.1738 Netsuke in the form of a boy rolling a yuki daruma, or snowman

Netsuke in the form of a boy rolling a yuki daruma or snowman

A 'daruma' doll (達磨) is a hollow, round, Japanese traditional doll modelled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the Zen tradition of Buddhism.

Daruma dolls are traditionally red and usually depict a bearded man (Bodhidharma), however they can differ greatly in colour and design depending on the region and artist. They have a design that is rich in symbolism and are regarded more as a talisman of good luck to the Japanese.

Daruma dolls are seen as a symbol of perseverance and good luck, making them a popular gift of encouragement. 

This depiction of a daruma doll shows a recognisable childhood pastime of making a snowman. The Japanese equivalent of a snowman is a yukidaruma (雪だるま), literally snow daruma.

Netsuke in the form of a boy rolling a yuki daruma or snowman
c. 1831–1870

Ivory, with a carved decoration
2.8 x 4.4 x 2.3 cm
Japan
EA1956.1738

Not currently on display