teru teru bozu girl with rainbow ribbon

A girl dressing up as a traditional Japanese charm doll called a ‘teru teru bozu’ (照る照る坊主), in readiness for the summer. Usually made of tissue paper or cloth, these dolls are hung in a window to prevent rain. The term ‘teru teru’ means ‘shine’, as in the sunshine, and ‘bozu’ comes from a word meaning Buddhist monk – the belief is that a priest might have the powers to prevent a rainy day. June is marked by the rainy season in Japan, and sometimes charms are used in the hope of warding off rain before a special event such as a festival.

Artist notes:

This wood girl is dressed up and ready to hang up - she has a brass hanger on her head and a rainbow ribbon bow. A blue bear head is painted on the underside.

My pieces are painted in a naïve and simple style, with visible brush strokes and differing paint consistencies. It is important to note that these dolls are made from real wood which will have naturally occurring markings and grain, and sometimes there will be small amount of bleeding along the grain, or knots, which is to be expected when using untreated wood - please make sure you consult the pictures carefully before purchasing. She has been finished in a top coat of matt acrylic.

My wooden girls are turned from Tulipwood/ Poplar by a production turner and then hand painted in the U.K. by me, a British artist, exploring patterns and scenes encountered by me on my travels and in daily life.

Approximately 15cm high to the top of the brass fitting.
Please note: THIS IS NOT A TOY and should be kept out of the reach of children.