The Tanuki (狸), or Japanese raccoon dog, plays a very prominent role in various Japanese legends and folktales. The fictional Yōkai Tanuki called Bake-Danuki (化け狸) is known for its ability to shapeshift. Additionally, the Bake-Danuki wards off evil spirits.
This formed the inspiration for the Tanuki statues seen all throughout Japan. In gardens, on verandas, on balconies or even on front porches, an authentic Tanuki statue is indispensable.
Traditional Tanuki statues often share a number of recognizable characteristics. For example, they are usually depicted with a straw hat on their head and with a Sake flask known as a Tokkuri (徳利) in their hand. Next to this, they often carry a wooden staff and a note with a Kanji character on it.
Specifications
- Depth = 9.06 inch
- Width = 14.17 inch
- Height = 22.44 inch
- Origin: Nagoya, Aichi prefecture, Japan
- Material: Ceramic
- Age: Heisei period
