Maneki-neko

[islander]

The maneki-neko (Japanese, literally "beckoning cat") is a common Japanese figurine (lucky charm, talisman) which is often believed to bring good luck to the owner.



In modern times, they are usually made of ceramic or plastic. The figurine depicts a cat (traditionally a calico Japanese Bobtail) beckoning with an upright paw, and is usually displayedâ€"often at the entranceâ€"of shops, restaurants, pachinko parlors, and other businesses.

[islander]

Some of the sculptures are electric or battery-powered and have a slow-moving paw beckoning. The maneki-neko is sometimes also called the welcoming cat, lucky cat, money cat, happy cat, beckoning cat, or fortune cat in English.


Gold-colored maneki-neko with solar-powered continuously beckoning arm

Maneki-neko come in different colors, styles and degrees of ornateness. Common colors are white, black, gold and sometimes red. In addition to ceramic figurines, maneki-neko can be found as keychains, piggy banks, air fresheners, house-plant pots, and miscellaneous ornaments, as well as large statues. It is also called the "Chinese lucky cat" in some cases due to its huge popularity among Chinese merchants.


A Maneki-neko in Chinese style

[islander]

History

Some believe the maneki-neko originated in Osaka, while some insist it was Tokyo (then named Edo). Maneki-neko first appeared during the later part of the Edo period in Japan. In 1876, during the Meiji era, it was mentioned in a newspaper article, and there is evidence that kimono-clad maneki-neko were distributed at a shrine in Osaka during this time. A 1902 advertisement for maneki-neko indicates that by the turn of the century they were popular.

Beyond this the exact origins of maneki-neko are uncertain, though several folktales offer explanations.

Others have noted the similarities between the maneki-neko's gesture and that of a cat washing its face. There is a Japanese belief that a cat washing its face means a visitor will soon arrive. This belief may in turn be related to an even older Chinese proverb that states that if a cat washes its face, it will rain. Thus, it is possible a belief arose that a figure of a cat washing its face would bring in customers.


Fushimi clay doll by Tanka

more at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maneki-neko

[islander]

Maneki-neko with motorized arm beckons customers to buy lottery tickets in Tokyo, Japan

[islander]

Sometimes both paws are raised, though this is unusual

[vrglguapo]

Naa ko ana mag lihoklihok ang kamot.

[hubag bohol]

[islander]

apir!

[islander]

Naa ko ana mag lihoklihok ang kamot.

ang ako battery-operated nga naguba. arang gyod hinoon ning made in china.

[hubag bohol]

[islander]

tired maneki-neko?

[islander]

the great equalizer

[hubag bohol]

Hmm, mga ligngin og nawong successfully equalized...