Seto Ware Maneki-neko Yokoza Red Cat

The Seto Ware Maneki-neko Yokoza Red Catis definitely different from all the maneki-neko (beckoning cat figurines) you see in restaurants and shops all over Japan: it isn't calico but bright red, it's sitting sideways, is much more realistic, and has raised its front right paw instead of the left. However, this isn't a modern pop-arty version of the maneki-neko. In fact, the design has a long historical pedigree of its own.

First, the color: back in the day, red color was thought to protect against illness, especially smallpox. Second, the shape: ukiyoe woodblock print painters like Utagawa Hiroshige painted maneki-neko in this sideways pose to make it more realistic. Then, the material: this 12 x 9 x 6.5 cm (4.7 x 3.5 x 2.6") Seto Ware Maneki-neko Yokoza Red Cat has been made from porcelain in the Seto-yaki pottery style from Aichi Prefecture, which is one of Japan's six ancient kilns. And finally, the paw: in contrast to left-pawed beckoning cats that are for bringing in customers, right-pawed felines are thought to bring you wealth!

Specs and Features:

• Handmade in the traditional Seto-yaki pottery style from Aichi Prefecture
• Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 6.5 cm (4.7 x 3.5 x 2.6")
• Weight: 120 g (4.2 oz)