Vintage Japanese Shigaraki-Yaki Tanuki Figurine, Heisei (1990-2018) | SKU: 26M-081-2

Vintage Japanese Shigaraki-Yaki Tanuki Figurine, Heisei (1990-2018) | SKU: 26M-081-2

A cheerful ceramic tanuki -- Japan's beloved symbol of good fortune, conviviality, and the unexpected magic of everyday life.

A tanuki is a Japanese raccoon dog celebrated in folklore as a shapeshifting trickster and bringer of prosperity. The iconic tanuki figurine -- known as a "Shigaraki-yaki tanuki" when made in the celebrated Shigaraki style -- has graced the entrances of restaurants, sake shops, and homes across Japan for centuries, warding off misfortune and welcoming good luck. This stout, hand-crafted ceramic example captures all the classic attributes: a wide-brimmed kasa hat tilted back on the head, a round sake flask (tokkuri) clutched in one paw, a great rounded belly marked with a leaf motif, and a rope-tied collar -- each detail a traditional symbol of protection, generosity, and the pleasures of a well-lived life. The warm iron-brown glaze, heavily textured surface, and off-white unglazed belly give the figure a rustic, wabi-sabi aesthetic that speaks to the earthy charm of Japanese folk ceramics. The hollow interior visible from the back of the hat is characteristic of studio-fired tanuki pieces of this type.

Today, a tanuki statue of this scale makes a striking living room accent or entryway statement -- a conversation-starting piece of Japanese decorative art that brings warmth, humor, and cultural depth to any space. Tuck it beside a front door to channel the traditional good-luck welcome, display it on a garden terrace or patio as an outdoor ceramic accent, or position it on a bookshelf or bar cart as a nod to Japanese drinking culture and folklore. Its neutral earth tones complement Japandi style interiors, mid-century modern shelving, and naturalistic decor schemes alike. A truly unique housewarming gift or gift for collectors with a love of Japanese folk art and vintage Japanese craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1990-2018 (Heisei)
• Material: Stoneware ceramic with iron-brown glaze and unglazed cream belly; hand-modeled and kiln-fired
• Use: Decorative lucky figurine; traditionally placed at shop and home entrances as a symbol of good fortune and hospitality
• Modern Use: Entryway or garden accent statue; living room or bar cart display; unique housewarming gift or gift for Japanophiles
• Features: Classic tanuki iconography -- wide kasa hat with open hollow crown, sake flask with painted characters, rope collar, leaf motif on belly, and large rounded abdomen; richly textured surface with warm iron-brown glaze; hollow interior visible from hat opening; stable footed base
• Dimensions: 11"W x 9"D x 23"H
• Condition: Excellent

A vintage Japanese tanuki figurine steeped in folk tradition -- an irresistible living room accent, garden statement, or gift for collectors who appreciate the charm of handcrafted Japanese ceramic art.

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.