Seven Gods of Fortune as Daruma

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Absolutely wonderful and rare depiction of the Seven Gods of Fortune (Seven Lucky Gods) created to appear like Daruma. They each have their own characteristic faces as the 7 Gods but the "clothing" and stance appear to be Daruma. (Benzaiten, the only female of the 7 Gods, looks like Hime). They sit on a stand measuring 6-1/8" x 1". The dolls measure 3/4". This is part of a collection belonging to an elderly long time Daruma doll collector in Japan and is thought to be from the 30's or 40's. Very slight smearing of paint and a little fading of the purple but in excellent condition for the age.

The Shichifukujin (Seven Gods of Fortune) are a group of Asian gods that travel in a treasure ship (takara bune) and dispense happiness to their believers. There are specific characteristics associated with each god.
1. Ebisu - god of fishermen, depicted carrying a fishing pole and/or a fish
2. Daikokuten - god of wealth or prosperity, carries a magic mallet or treasure sack
3. Benzaiten - goddess of the arts (the only female), carries a lute
4. Hotei - god of happiness and contentment, depicted with an exposed stomach for it is said if you rub his belly, it will bring good luck. He carries a bag of food and treasure
5. Fukurokuju - god of wisdom and longevity, carries a scroll which contains all the wisdom in the world
6. Jurojin - god of longevity, carries a staff or scroll which contains the secret to longevity
7. Bishamonten - god of war/warriors, carries a spear

This product was added to our catalog on Saturday 02 September, 2006.