Japanese Daruma-Style Wooden Folk Art Figure – Japan Toy Museum 10th Anniversary – Hand-Painted – c.1980s–1990s
Description:
A distinctive Japanese hand-painted wooden folk art figure created as a commemorative piece for the 10th anniversary of the Japan Toy Museum (日本玩具博物館). The object features bold Daruma-inspired facial imagery in red, black, and natural wood tones, with traditional symbolic decoration and painted character details.The underside bears Japanese inscriptions translating to “10th Anniversary of the Opening – Japan Toy Museum”, confirming this as an official museum-issued commemorative item, rather than a generic souvenir. An additional marking reading “絵付” (etsuke) denotes hand-painted decoration, a common designation used for crafted folk art pieces.
A visually striking and culturally grounded piece with clear provenance tied to a respected Japanese folk-art institution.
Features:
• Date window: c.1980s–1990s
• Origin: Japan
• Issued by: Japan Toy Museum (10th Anniversary commemorative)
• Decoration: Hand-painted (絵付)
• Form: Solid wooden folk-art figure (non-functional)
• Motif: Daruma-inspired face with symbolic markings
• Colours: Red, black, natural wood tones
• Height: approx. ~4.5 inches / ~11.5 cm (see ruler in photos)
Construction / Materials:
• Turned solid wood
• Hand-painted surface decoration
• Traditional Japanese folk-art finishing techniques
Condition:
Good vintage condition. Light surface wear, minor marks, and patina consistent with age and handling. No cracks or structural issues observed. All markings remain legible.
Type:
Japanese museum commemorative folk-art object / Daruma-style decorative figure.
