A fine and early Daruma mold with a near-black patina. The grain of the wood can be seen on various portions of the piece.

The mold was used to shape the figure of Daruma, the Zen Buddhist monk who is depicted in a seated posture, embodying meditation and perseverance. The Daruma doll is steeped in symbolism and is regarded by as a powerful talisman of good luck. 

Legend claims that the Bodhidharma sat facing a wall in meditation for nine years without moving, which caused his legs and arms to fall off. Another popular legend claims that after falling asleep during his nine-year meditation, he became angry with himself and cut off his eyelids to avoid ever falling asleep again.

17-18c. Japan

4.5" diameter, spherical in shape