Made from Tokoname ware, this set of Manekineko cat figurines includes one raising the right hand and another raising the left hand. Manekineko is a traditional Japanese good luck charm that is said to invite luck with its adorable pose, the raised right hand inviting money and the raised left hand inviting people. By putting together a set of both types, they invite both money and people, and the white “happiness” cat and the black “talisman against bad luck” cat signifies “inviting good luck and avoiding bad luck.”
Tokoname ware Manekineko is a specialty product of Tokoname city in Aichi Prefecture, one of the six historic pottery towns of Japan. It is recognizable for the chubby, two heads high body, round cute eyes and golden oval coin in its hand, and there is an opening on the back so it can be used as a piggy bank. This famous image of the Manekineko was born here in Tokoname, and spread throughout Japan.
The company has been dedicated to the manufacture of Tokoname ware Manekineko for 77 years. Each figurine is carefully hand made by artisans, from creating its body out of varying size, color and pose, to coloring with meticulous detail. This product is a size 4 (approx. 13 cm tall), so they do not take up much space even when displayed together, and can be used in various situations from home to office. In addition, sitting them on zabuton cushions heightens their presence and the gifter’s wish for good luck.