Ashmolean Museum — Ashmolean Advent Day 8 - Daruma Snowman
This small netsuke or cord fastener takes the form of a boy rolling a yuki daruma (雪だるま) or snowman. This snowman is inspired by the Japanese Daruma doll (達磨), which is a traditional, round doll modelled after Bodhidharma, the founder of the Zen tradition of Buddhism. They are traditionally red and depict a bearded man (Bodhidharma), however they can differ greatly in colour and design depending on the region and artist.
The Daruma is rich in symbolism and is 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.
