Danbo (character)
Danbo, also known as Danboard, is a cardboard robot character conceived and designed by Azuma Kiyohiko for his manga series Yotsuba&!. Danbo is not a sentient robot, but rather a costume worn by a character named Miura Hayasaka in the manga.
Character Design and Origin: Danbo is depicted as a simple, boxy robot constructed from cardboard boxes. Its appearance is minimalistic, featuring a rectangular head with two LED-like eyes and a slot for a coin on its chest. The overall design emphasizes a rudimentary, almost handcrafted aesthetic. The character first appeared in the manga Yotsuba&! during a story arc where Miura wears the costume for a school project.
Role in Yotsuba&!: In the context of the manga, Danbo is a source of amusement and wonder for the main character, Yotsuba Koiwai. Yotsuba, a young and inquisitive girl, believes Danbo is a real robot and interacts with it accordingly. Miura, while wearing the costume, attempts to maintain the illusion for Yotsuba's sake.
Popularity and Merchandise: Outside of the manga, Danbo has become a widely popular character and internet meme. Its simplistic design and endearing appearance have made it a favorite subject for photography and artistic expression. This popularity has led to a range of Danbo-themed merchandise, including figures, toys, and accessories. The character's image is often used in various contexts online, frequently in humorous or heartwarming scenarios.
Key Characteristics: Danbo's key characteristics include:
- Appearance: Boxy cardboard construction with a rectangular head and LED eyes.
- Non-Sentience (in-universe): It is a costume, not a real robot.
- Naivete (implied): From Yotsuba's perspective, Danbo possesses a childlike innocence.
- Versatility: Danbo's simple design allows for diverse interpretations and artistic representations.