A rare and large granite sculpture carved in the form of a standing tanuki 狸 (mythical raccoon dog). Carved from grey-black mottled granite. The stern figure stands upright wearing a large straw hat, with its face tilted upward and an expression somewhat reminiscent of a fox. Clad in an open robe revealing its rotund belly, the tanuki holds a sake bottle inscribed with the kanji 八 (hachi), meaning “eight,” referring to the eight auspicious attributes traditionally associated with the legendary tanuki and its symbolism of prosperity and good fortune. In the other hand it carries an accounting ledger, alluding to the mischievous creature’s famously unpaid tabs and carefree character. Between the legs hangs the exaggerated oversized scrotum. Period: Japan – Taishô period (1912–1926) Dimensions: Height 69 cm, Width 37 cm, Depth 29 cm. It is in good condition with traces of age and outdoor exposure, including a large old chip to the reverse of the hat. Please refer to the photographs for a clear condition reference. Bake’danuki 化け狸 are yôkai 妖怪 (supernatural beings) from Japanese folklore. Although based on the real tanuki animal, these legendary creatures are portrayed as playful shapeshifters associated with prosperity, luck, and humorous deception. When shipped, we will include a certificate of authenticity.