Okiagari Roly-poly Doll - Empress

Empress
Empress Suiko (554–628) was the first woman to ascend to the Chrysanthemum Throne in Japan. She had a great influence on political and religious issues: during her long reign, she opened up relations with China, strengthened Buddhism in Japan, and passed the 17- Article Constitution. Loyal and principled, she was a woman ahead of her time.

A Japanese Tradition
Okiagari-koboshi means “little monk who stands up”. These traditional Japanese roly-poly dolls are made from papier-mâché. They are designed to always return to an upright position, even if you try to tip them onto their side. Okiagaris were actually mentioned in 14th-century writings.

Symbolism
Okiagaris symbolise perseverance and determination in times of adversity. They are a reminder of the old Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, stand up eight”. According to tradition, a doll is given to each person in the family plus one, in the hope that a baby will be born during the year. During the Tokaichi or Tenth Day Market, customers drop a few dolls at a time, and the ones that remain standing are said to bring good fortune.