Daruma symbolize patience and strength and never giving up.
Daruma dolls are used in Japan for many purposes, most often for luck at the beginning of an undertaking of some sort.
When the undertaking has been successfully completed, the eyes of the daruma get painted in.
For example, politicians are regularly seen on TV news painting in the eye when they have won an election. Store and restaurant owners place them at the front of the shop.
This large Japanese daruma doll is 43 cm (17 inches) in height and 38 cm (15 inches) wide.
Red with the Chinese character for happiness (福)
The daruma is made from paper mache with a clay base.
