This listing is for a papier mâché daruma doll . Daruma might have been the inspiration for “Weebles” – the American toy from the 1970s with the jingle “Weebles wobble but they don’t fall down”!

Daruma is one of the Seven Lucky Gods and became a symbol of good luck during the Edo Period (1603 – 1868). The red color was believed to ward off evil.

These days, daruma dolls are associated with perseverance and fortitude. They are purchased without eyes, and the owner colors in one eye when they set a goal, and the second eye when that goal is achieved. As the god of persistence, it may get knocked down but will always right itself – a message of encouragement for those pursuing their goals.

Don't mistake the eyebrows on this daruma for the eyes - the white space below them is where you would draw your own eyes.

This daruma is made of papier mâché, painted in red and gold, and is approximately 4”x4”.