Okiagari Roly-poly Doll - Shinsengumi the Warrior

Shinsengumi the Warrior
Shinsengumi means the New Squad. This group of samurais was formed between 1863 and 1869 in order to support the Japanese military government. Their code of conduct was built on numerous values, including courage, compassion, honour and loyalty. They wore a blue uniform with a white rope crossed over the chest and white mountains on both sleeves. The Shinsengumi Squad became famous for defending the city of Tokyo.

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.