Dogu statue - Ancient Japanese sculpture - Jomon replica - Chariots of the god

Shipping to United States: $20.16
Sorry, this item has sold.

Dogu statue

Dimensions - Height - 10.2 cm / 4 inches

Width - 5 cm / 2 inches

Depth of stand - 4 cm / 1-1/2 inches

This is a replica of an ancient Japanese Dogu statue which were prominent during the Jomon period (14,000 - 300 bce). Earliest examples are crude forms comparable to the so called 'Venus statues' of neolithic Europe.

These statues have gained notoriety after the publication and subsequent documentary entitled, 'Chariots of the gods' based on Eric Von Daniken's hypothesis that these statues represent Alien contact in ancient times. Another book - 'The 6000 year old space suit' also a pioneering study that explores the possibility of ancient cultural evidence of Alien imagery in ancient artifacts. Certainly the large eyes and small mouth evoke the modern concept of an Alien being wearing what has been described as an elaborate space suit with goggles and breathing apparatus.

The archaeological assessment is far less fanciful as the discovery of over 15,000 examples have shown that intact statues are rare. Suggestions that they were fertility images is a common assumption due to so many cultures that formed the feminine 'mother goddess' image from prehistoric times. This example does appear to have breasts and wide hips typical of the goddess form. The patterns and bulky look of the costume could represent a type of ancient Eskimo style of clothing needed for the cold climate of ancient Japan. Another hypothesis is based on the obvious dismemberment of the majority of the statues. It is thought that they were made as a type of voodoo doll where a personal ailment was focused upon and the statue would take it over and then be smashed releasing the complaint.

Whatever the statues represent they are one of the most fascinating of ancient sculptures. This piece is a fine example with great fine detail. Made of a limestone and quartzite composition stone it has an aged slate black patina and is mounted on a polished felt based stand.


*As each item is handmade, slight colour variations may occur.

Shipping from Australia

Processing time

3-5 business days

Estimated shipping times

  • North America : 1 - 3 weeks
  • Europe : 1 - 3 weeks
  • Australia, New Zealand and Oceania : 1 - 2 weeks
  • Asia Pacific : 1 - 3 weeks
  • Latin America and the Caribbean : 1 - 3 weeks
  • North Africa and the Middle East : 1 - 3 weeks
  • Sub-Saharan Africa : 1 - 3 weeks

I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.

Customs and import taxes

Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.

Payment Options

Secure options
  • Accepts Etsy gift cards

Returns & Exchanges

I gladly accept returns and cancellations

Just contact me within: 5 days of delivery

Ship items back to me within: 14 days of delivery

  • Custom or personalized orders
  • Perishable products (like food or flowers)
  • Digital downloads
  • Intimate items (for health/hygiene reasons)
  • Items on sale
  • Conditions of return

    Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.

    Legal imprint