Empress Okiagari Roly-poly Doll

Empress Suiko (554-628) was the first woman to ascend to the Chrysanthemum Throne in Japan. She had a great influence on political and religious issues: during her long reign, she opened relations with China, strengthened Buddhism in Japan and approved the 17-Article Constitution. She was a modern and loyal woman with strong convictions.

Okiagari-koboshi means literally “getting-up little priest”. It’s a traditional Japanese roly-poly doll made from papier-mâché and designed so that its weight causes it to return to an upright position when knocked over. Okiagari-koboshi have been part of Japanese children's toys for a very long time; they were already mentioned in documents from the XIVth century. During the Tokaichi festival, also called the Tenth Day Market, people throw several roly-poly dolls down at the same time and the ones that stand back up are considered good-luck charms.

Okiagari-koboshi is a symbol of perseverance and resilience in times of adversity. Just like this Japanese saying: “Fall seven times, stand up eight”. According to tradition, one okiagari-koboshi should be given as a present to each member of the family plus one extra in the hope that the family will grow over the following year.

Made in: 

Japan

Technical specifications: 

4,8 cm, with crepe paper and washi paper