Daruma Good Luck Dolls of Japan Postcard

A black and white photograph of Daruma dolls on sale in Kawasaki, Japan. Evolving from a centuries-old tradition, Daruma dolls are bought, particularly at New Year, as a way to motivate people to focus on and achieve a goal. The dolls are based on the figure of the Bodidharma, the founder of the Zen sect of Buddhism. The round shape of the doll represents the ability to overcome adversity: '7 times down; 8 times up'. People decide on a goal and paint one eye of the doll to show their commitment. When the goal has been achieved, the other eye is filled in, providing the doll with 'full sight' or 'enlightenment'.