Vintage Japanese Tanuki Ceramic Figurine, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26J-0672-1

Vintage Japanese Tanuki Ceramic Figurine, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26J-0672-1

A large-scale Showa folk pottery tanuki -- the beloved raccoon dog of Japanese legend -- rendered with expressive hand-sculpted detail and rustic stoneware character.

A tanuki is the iconic raccoon dog figure of Japanese folklore, celebrated for centuries as a symbol of good fortune, conviviality, and prosperity. Traditionally placed at the entrances of shops, restaurants, and homes to welcome customers and invite good luck, the tanuki figurine -- or "tanuki-yaki" in pottery form -- is one of Japan's most enduring decorative folk art traditions. This substantial vintage example, likely produced during the late Showa era, displays all the hallmarks of handcrafted Japanese folk pottery: a boldly modeled round belly incised with fine comb-drawn texture, an exuberant open-mouthed expression, and a wide disc-shaped hat rising behind the figure's head. The tanuki cradles a sake flask painted with bold brushwork in one paw, while brushed calligraphy on the lower body adds an additional layer of folkloric charm. The warm palette of cream slip, iron-brown wash, and flowing black brushwork is achieved through a combination of slip application and oxide decoration typical of regional Showa-era folk kilns. The hollow opening at the top of the hat and the heavily textured cylindrical base suggest this piece may have also served a functional role -- potentially as a vessel or umbrella stand -- in addition to its primary decorative purpose.

Standing nearly two feet tall, this vintage Japanese tanuki figurine makes an immediate statement in any modern interior. Display it as a living room accent or entryway focal point to channel the wabi-sabi aesthetic -- its earthy tones and hand-built imperfections pair naturally with Japandi style decor, raw linen, natural wood, and matte ceramics. Nestle it beside a garden path or on a covered patio for an authentic nod to its traditional outdoor use. It also makes a truly unique housewarming gift or gift for Japanophiles and collectors of Japanese vintage folk art who appreciate bold sculptural presence with genuine cultural history.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware ceramic with slip decoration, iron-oxide wash, and black brushwork
• Use: Decorative good-luck figurine; traditionally placed at shop or home entrances to invite prosperity
• Modern Use: Living room or entryway statement sculpture; garden or patio accent; bold focal point in Japandi or wabi-sabi style interiors
• Features: Large rotund tanuki form with exaggerated round belly; wide ribbed disc hat with hollow top opening; expressive open-mouthed face with incised fur texture throughout; sake flask held in one paw with bold brushwork markings; brushed calligraphy on lower body; warm cream, brown, and black palette; heavily textured cylindrical base
• Dimensions: 11"W x 11"D x 24"H
• Condition: Excellent

A joyful and larger-than-life piece of Japanese vintage folk art -- this vintage tanuki brings centuries of good fortune and warmth 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.