Okiagari Roly-poly Doll - Emperor

Emperor
Since the coronation of Ojin in the 4 th century, the Emperor of Japan has played the role of supreme mediator between men and gods. Although he is not involved in military affairs and holds a symbolic role, he has always been associated with power and magnificence. Nowadays, the Japanese Emperor is the only official emperor in the world.

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.