Vintage Japanese Maneki-neko Clay Figurine, Heisei (1990-2018) | SKU: 26J-0269

Vintage Japanese Maneki-neko Clay Figurine, Heisei (1990-2018) | SKU: 26J-0269

A large hand-painted clay beckoning cat with richly decorated bib and a painted lucky deity figure -- an exceptionally detailed good luck talisman for home or shop display.

A maneki-neko is a traditional Japanese lucky cat figurine believed to invite good fortune, prosperity, and positive energy to the place where it is displayed. Originating in Edo-period Japan and remaining a beloved fixture of Japanese folk craft tradition, the maneki-neko is one of the most recognized symbols of good luck in Japanese culture. This large example is hand-formed from clay and covered in bold, expressive polychrome painting -- characteristic of vintage Japanese craft at its most vivid. The right paw is raised high to beckon good fortune, and the tricolor calico markings -- warm amber, black, and cream -- follow the classic mike-neko pattern long associated with luck. The elaborately painted bib is a standout feature, rendered in deep black with gold, blue, and pink floral motifs including pine, plum blossom, and bamboo -- the auspicious "three friends of winter." Below the bib, the body is adorned with a large hand-painted figure of a smiling, rosy-cheeked deity holding a golden treasure paddle, accompanied by brushwork script, reinforcing the figurine's layered symbolism of wealth and good cheer. The unglazed, rough-textured base with a hollow opening is consistent with traditional clay construction of this type.

At a generous 16 inches tall, this maneki-neko makes a commanding statement well beyond its original role as a shop talisman. Display it as a living room accent on a console table or bookshelf, where its bold colors and folk-art character bring an authentic wabi-sabi aesthetic to any interior. It works equally well as an entryway figurine -- greeting guests with an outstretched paw just as it would have welcomed customers in a traditional Japanese shop. Its substantial size and intricate decoration also make it a standout gift for collectors of Japanese vintage folk art, a memorable housewarming gift, or a focal point in a Japandi-style room that blends minimalist decor with characterful vintage accents.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1990-2018 (Heisei)
• Material: Hand-formed clay with polychrome hand-painted decoration including gold, blue, pink, and black pigments
• Use: Good luck talisman displayed in shops, restaurants, or homes to invite fortune and prosperity
• Modern Use: Living room accent or bookshelf display; entryway statement piece; housewarming gift for collectors of Japanese folk art
• Features: Large raised right paw; tricolor calico markings; red-painted ears; elaborately painted black bib with gold, blue, and pink floral motifs (pine, plum blossom, bamboo); hand-painted smiling deity figure with brushwork script on body; large black spot on side; hollow unglazed base
• Dimensions: 10"W x 10"D x 16"H
• Condition: Excellent

A striking piece of vintage Japanese folk craft -- this large maneki-neko brings layers of symbolism, lively hand-painted artistry, and authentic good fortune energy to 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.