Hachimaki Daruma by Yoshio Mingei

This daruma was made by Yoshio Utsunomiya at his workshop in Uwajima, Ehime.

Utsunomiya followed in the footsteps of his father in making forms in washi papier-mâché that express the character of his town.

This could be of strong and friendly deer heads, or the cow demons known in local folklore.

The work taps into the tradition for ‘hariko’ paper models and toys. But ultimately the objects made at Yoshio Mingei (folk craft) are not defined by their purpose, but by the heart put into their creation.

A hachimaki daruma, the name refers to the band wrapped around its head. Unlike the daruma common in east Japan, it does not feature blank eyes for the user to paint. Rather it surveys you with a slightly stern expression, which together with its headdress and demeanour, invites you to strengthen your resolve for the goal you have set.

A unique item of craft, it is signed on the reverse as work of the second generation Yoshio.

It is 21cm high and 15cm in diameter. It weighs 410g.