Emperor Okiagari Roly-poly Doll

Since the coronation of Ojin in the 4th century, the Emperor of Japan has played the role of supreme mediator between men and gods. Although he was not involved in military affairs and had a symbolic role, his figure has always been associated with power and magnificence. Nowadays the Japanese Emperor is the only one to have this title in the whole world.

Okiagari-koboshi means "little monk who stands up". It is a traditional Japanese roly-poly doll made with papier-mâché. It is designed in such a way that it always returns to the vertical position, even if you try to tip it to one side. Okiagaris have been a part of Japanese children's toys for a long time. They were already mentioned in writings of the fourteenth century. 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.

Okiagaris symbolize perseverance and resistance in times of adversity. They remind this 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.