Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten | "Three Daruma Dolls" Born in Three Northeastern Disaster-Stricken Prefectures
ART | Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten
International Monetary Fund (IMF) / World Bank Annual Meetings Commemorative Gift
Three Daruma Dolls Born in Three Disaster-Stricken Prefectures of Tohoku
At the International Monetary Fund (IMF) / World Bank Annual Meetings held in Tokyo on Saturday, October 13th, Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten was responsible for the pin badges used by participants as their entry IDs. The pin badges featured "Sashiko-ori," a traditional textile from the Tohoku region. In connection with this, three Daruma dolls, created in the three disaster-stricken prefectures of Tohoku, were presented as commemorative gifts to the meeting participants by Japan. These Daruma dolls will be sold at the Dainipponichi Isetan Shinjuku store.
Texy by Morito IWANAGA (OPENERS)
Transmitting Indomitable Spirit from Disaster Areas to the World
Daruma dolls are a type of lucky charm and traditional toy from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. They charmingly embody the spirit of "fall seven times, stand up eight," symbolizing resilience. Each Daruma doll incorporates representative materials and manufacturing methods from Fukushima, Miyagi, and Iwate prefectures.
Paper Daruma (Fukushima Hariko)
This is a traditional craft from the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture, with a history of about 400 years. It is said to have originated when the feudal lord of the time commissioned them and sold them during the New Year. Known as a symbol of perseverance and life due to its ability to always stand up, its determined and cheerful posture is utterly endearing.
Origin/Manufacturing: Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture
Dimensions: H33mm x W23mm
Wooden Daruma (Miyagi Zelkova)
Made from "Zelkova," the prefectural tree of Miyagi Prefecture, this doll utilizes the traditional woodturning techniques of the Kokeshi doll-producing Tohoku region. It is finished with painted details on the natural wood. Each piece is carefully crafted by Toshiyuki Kojima, a Kokeshi artisan from the Tsugaru region of Aomori Prefecture.
Origin: Shiroishi area, Miyagi Prefecture, etc.
Manufacturing: Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture
Dimensions: H34mm x W25mm
Iron Daruma (Nanbu Ironware from Iwate Prefecture)
Manufacturing was handled by a traditional Nanbu ironware foundry and a high-tech prototype design factory. Utilizing computers, they created hollow interiors and calculated the center of gravity, repeating numerous prototypes. After much trial and error, this surprising product, capable of standing upright, was completed.
Origin/Manufacturing: Mizusawa Ward, Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture
Dimensions: H26mm x W25mm
These three Daruma dolls, born in the disaster-stricken prefectures of Tohoku, carry a message of hope for the recovery of Japan and the global economy, as well as gratitude for the worldwide support received for the reconstruction efforts following the earthquake. These charming yet powerful Daruma dolls may offer hints for guiding the world toward a better future.
Three Daruma Dolls
Price: ¥5,040
Box Dimensions: H34mm x W98mm x D93mm
Dainipponichi Isetan Store
Location: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building, 5F
3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
Tel: 03-5269-8880
Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
http://www.dainipponichi.jp
Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten
Tel: 0743-57-8095
http://www.yu-nakagawa.co.jp