A Daruma doll is a hollow and round traditional doll. This is a Japanese tradition. They are modeled after Bodhidharma other wise known as a Dharma doll. He was the founder of the zen buddhist sect. I love these little dolls. Daruma dolls are seen as a symbol of perseverance and good luck, making them a popular gift of encouragement.
Darumas are still usually made of papier-mâché, have a round shape, weighted at the bottom so that they will always return to an upright position when tilted over. This characteristic has come to symbolize the ability to have success, overcome adversity, and recover from misfortune. This is why they make for a cool tattoo idea with a neat little meaning behind them.
The eyes of Daruma are often blank when sold. The recipient of the doll fills in one eye upon setting the goal, then the other upon fulfilling it. In this way, every time they see the one-eyed Daruma, they recall the goal. There is also a burning ceremony for these dolls at the end of the year, people go to the temple where they received them and this is called Daruma Kuyo. They give thanks to the doll, purchase new ones and send them on there way burning them with all sorts of other figures and dolls.
I really love to put my little twist on these lil guy's and make them fun for tattooing. There are so many different ways to do this tattoo and I would love to do one custom just for you. Contact me to get your very own.