This kokeshi’s expression is joyful and sweet, her hands are tucked under her chin, and her kimono is covered in stylised daisies, hinagiku (雛菊) in Japanese and chrysanthemums, kiku (菊). The flowers painted on top of her head underline her feminine and benevolent nature.
Modeled after Bodhidharma, the Indian monk who was the father of Zen Buddhism, who is known as Daruma (達磨) in Japan, this egg-shaped Kokeshi by Aoki Ryōka (吉木容華) is the female manifestation of the Daruma.
According to Japanese tradition however, the Hime Daruma “Princess Daruma” depicts the legendary empress Jingū (神功皇后, Jingū-kōgō – 169-269 AD), also known as Okinagatarashihime (息長帯比売命), who ruled after the death of her husband emperor Chūai (仲哀天皇), also known as Tarashinakatsuhiko (足仲彦天皇), in 200 AD. Following the death of emperor Chūai, Jingū-kōgō donned her armour and lead a military campaign into the Korean Peninsula. A powerful shamaness, Jingū is regarded as an example of the onna-bugeisha (女武芸者), woman warriors who fought alongside men. Jingū-kōgō was later venerated as a kami (神), a Goddess, in the Shintō (神道) religion. For this reason, the Hime Daruma dolls are considered lucky and are associated with growth, prosperity, family, protection and good fortune.
Hime Daruma are given for:
- Weddings
- Births
- House warming
- Encouragement for projects and personal development
Symbolism of daisies (hinagiku):
- Daisies frequently appear on creative kokeshi targeted toward younger recipients, symbolizing innocence and a joyful spirit.
- They are associated with a trust in the future, transformation, and fresh starts.
Symbolism of chrysanthemums (kiku):
- The kiku is a highly revered autumn bloom that symbolizes a long, healthy life and youthfulness.
- As the official symbol of the Japanese Imperial Throne, it carries connotations of nobility, high status, and general goodwill.
- The red and white colour palette used on the doll reinforces wishes for happiness and protection against bad luck.
Combined on a Hime Daruma doll, these flowers emphasise a message of endurance, future happiness, and a vibrant,
Specifications:
Height: 7.5 centimetres
Weight: 128 grams