Vintage Japanese Maneki Neko Mi-ke Calico Lucky Cat Figurine, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-048-2

Vintage Japanese Maneki Neko Mi-ke Calico Lucky Cat Figurine, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-048-2

A cheerful mi-ke calico lucky cat in hand-painted ceramic -- inviting good fortune into any home or shop.

A maneki neko is a traditional Japanese lucky cat figurine believed to beckon good fortune, prosperity, and happiness to its owner. This vintage ceramic example depicts the classic mi-ke (tri-color calico) cat -- one of the most auspicious coat patterns in Japanese folklore -- rendered in a glossy off-white glaze with boldly painted red, black, and pink patches. The cat sits upright with its right paw raised high in the traditional beckoning gesture said to invite wealth and good luck. A bright red collar trimmed with a decorative green-and-red patterned bib frames a raised gold koban coin charm at the chest -- another powerful symbol of prosperity. Fine hand-painted details include delicate whisker lines, gently closed eyes conveying a contented smile, and carefully outlined ears. The reverse reveals a neatly tied red bow at the collar and the full calico patchwork that extends across the back and haunches. This handcrafted Japanese ceramic figurine dates to the Late Showa period, a time when maneki neko production thrived as both a folk-art tradition and a beloved feature of Japanese shop and home decor.

Today, a vintage maneki neko like this one makes an eye-catching living room accent on a bookshelf or side table, bringing a touch of wabi-sabi aesthetic and Japandi-inspired charm to modern interiors. Its compact, self-contained form also makes it a standout piece on a home office desk or a kitchen windowsill -- anywhere a little extra good luck is welcome. With its warm folk-art character and collectible provenance, it also makes a truly unique housewarming gift or a thoughtful gift for Japanophiles and ceramic collectors alike.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Glazed ceramic with hand-painted overglaze decoration and gilt accent
• Use: Decorative lucky cat figurine; placed in homes, shops, and entryways to invite good fortune and prosperity
• Modern Use: Living room accent or shelf display piece; home office desk decor; housewarming or gift for collectors
• Features: Mi-ke (tri-color calico) coat in red, black, and pink on an off-white glaze ground; right paw raised in beckoning gesture; hand-painted facial details including whiskers and closed eyes; red collar with decorative green-and-red patterned bib; raised gold koban coin charm; red bow detail at the reverse collar; all-over glossy glaze finish
• Dimensions: 4"W x 7 1/4" x 5 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A joyful piece of vintage Japanese ceramic folk art that carries centuries of good-luck symbolism into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.