An antique Japanese Daruma wooden mold used for making paper mâché dolls. Likely retired from duty and lacquered to preserve its years of production and service. The worn lacquer is a testament to its display and use that extended beyond its useful life and paid tribute to the former artisans that supported the craft. The bottom reveals the three holes used to connect the mold to a turning wheel for ease of applying the paper mache. Knife cuts and natural cracks from wear show how the mold was used.

Age: Meiji period (1868-1912)

Dimensions: 9" Wide by 11" High by 9" Deep