Maneki Neko - Beckoning Cat Piggy Bank
This classic Tokoname-yaki beckoning cat (招き猫 - maneki neko) piggy bank has a raised left hand, inviting good fortune, friends, and happiness. The gold coin reads senmanryō (千万両 - ten million ryō), a talisman of good wealth and fortune.
Made in Japan. Ships from the United States.
Width: 8.9 cm (3.5 in)
Height: 12.7 cm (5 in)
Tokoname-yaki (常滑焼) is a type of Japanese pottery that traditionally comes from Tokoname in Aichi Prefecture, Japan. The site of one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, pottery has been made in Tokoname since the 12th century.
Today, Tokoname ware is known for its iconic brick-red clay called shudei. Famously used in teaware and bonsai pots, this clay’s vibrant colour comes from its rich iron content. Tea steeped in unglazed Tokoname teapots is said to have a mellower taste.
Maneki-neko (also known as Beckoning Cats or Lucky Cats) are feline figurines that are thought to bring good luck and fortune. Despite being a classic symbol of Japan, they are relatively recent, first emerging towards the end of the Edo era. While they were first made in and around Tokyo, today the largest producer of maneki-neko is the town of Tokoname, which is perhaps more famous for their exquisite teapots.
The classic maneki-neko is white, although today many colours are available. The cat either has the left, right, or both hands raised: the left beckons fortune and happiness, the right beckons money and wealth, and both hands is for those who want it all.
