SHIGARAKI WARE TANUKI FIGURINE – FUKUFUKU TANUKI, SIZE 13

Shigaraki ware is a type of Japanese pottery produced in and around Shigaraki, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture. It is recognized as one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. Made using clay with strong plasticity, it is characterized by a rustic, earthy texture that embraces the natural qualities of its materials. Shigaraki ware is appreciated in many settings, from entertaining guests to gifts and souvenirs for people overseas. The Origins of Shigaraki Tanuki Figures The first person to make tanuki figures was Fujiwara Tetsuzo, the first-generation founder of Rian, a pottery workshop established in the early Meiji period. As a young apprentice at a Kiyomizu ware pottery in Kyoto, Tetsuzo is said to have had a mysterious, dreamlike experience one moonlit night: tanuki were drumming on their bellies along the banks of the Otowa River, making a “pon-poko-pon” sound. When he told his master about the experience, the master explained that hearing tanuki drumming on their bellies was something only a fortunate few could experience. Inspired to recreate the scene in pottery, Tetsuzo began making ceramic tanuki after returning to Shigaraki. This is said to mark the beginning of Shigaraki tanuki figures. Hasso Engi: Eight Auspicious Features That Invite Good Fortune Shigaraki tanuki figures embody Hasso Engi, or “eight auspicious features.” The hat, eyes, smile, sake flask, account book, large belly, money pouch, and tail each carry a particular meaning. Hat Protection from misfortune and harmful influences. Eyes Large eyes symbolize attentiveness to one’s surroundings and sound judgment. Smile A cheerful smile is believed to bring prosperity in business. Sake Flask A wish to cultivate virtue and never lack food or drink, while enjoying success in business. Account Book A wish to build strong, trusting relationships with customers. Large Belly Composure and the courage to make bold decisions. Money Pouch A wish for financial good fortune. PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 35×28×42CM