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Maneki Neko
In Asia this is a popular traditional symbol of prosperity, good fortune and protection. The cat’s raised paw will beckon good fortune into your home. In Japan these lucky cats are called Maneki Neko literally meaning beckoning cats.
Position this cat facing an entrance or by a window in your home so the cat can attract good Feng Shui into your house. These Lucky cats are also often displayed on a high lucky shelf facing a window or door in business premises as they are considered to be very auspicious by Chinese business people.
The cat has a mat yellow glaze with many symbols of good fortune. The cat has its right paw raised holding a “Good Luck” banner and sits on a red cusion.
Symbols include;
Yellow cat - promotes prosperity
Daikon - a giant white radish used in Japanese culinary dishes. The radish, a big perfect vegetable represents bounty and good fortune. This symbol is still quite an unusual decorative item for Maneki Neko cats. Found on the reverse side of this cat.
Daruma - the Japanese name for Bodhidharma who brought Zen Buddhism to china from India. Daruma is considered to be lucky.
Koban - is a gold coin used in the Edo period in Japan. The Koban was worth one ryo or approximately 1000 Japanese dollars in the early Japanese monetary system. Now, modern Maneki Neko cats, to keep up with inflation today, hold Kobans representing 10 million Ryo.
Hyotan - a hollow dried gourd. This is a symbol of good luck and protection. Traditionally the Japanese used the gourd for storing sake and other beverages. Three of these gourds can be found on the left side of this cat.
Cranes - for luck, beauty, and prosperity
Turtle – for longevity
Size: approximately 15cm in height and 18cm in width.
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