Seven Gods of Fortune as Daruma

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Wonderful and rare depiction of the Seven Gods of Fortune (Seven Lucky Gods) created to appear like Daruma. They each have their own characteristics as the 7 Gods but the "clothing" and the shape appear to be Daruma. (Benzaiten, the only female of the 7 Gods, looks like Hime). This could also be Daruma appearing to be the 7 gods.

They sit on a stand measuring 9-3/4" x 1-1/2". The dolls measure 1-1/2 & 1-7/8".

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.

In excellent condition for the age, with some soiling and some wear to the paint.

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 Thursday 26 November, 2009.