Terracotta - Shōwa period (1926-1989)






Holds a master’s in Japanese art history with over 10 years’ expertise in Asian art.
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This original Japanese Fukusuke statue from the Shōwa period is made of terracotta and measures 39 × 37 × 23 cm.
Description from the seller
Large Vintage Japanese Fukusuke Statue – 39 cm Hand-Painted Earthenware Figure with Fan & Kamishimo Attire
【Description】
An exceptionally expressive and unusually large vintage Japanese Fukusuke (Lucky Servant) earthenware statue, traditional herald of good fortune, prosperity, and hospitality.
Artisanal Details & Cultural Symbolism:
Iconic Fukusuke Silhouette: Features the legendary oversized head, cheerful smiling face, and large earlobes—classic Japanese symbols of wisdom, luck, and abundance.
Traditional Ceremonial Attire: Draped in classical Edo-period formal Kamishimo attire with winged shoulder guards and a Hakama skirt, holding a hand-painted folding fan (Senshi).
Impressive Large Scale: Standing at 39 cm in height and 37 cm in width, this figure significantly exceeds standard desktop Fukusuke sizes, creating a bold, eye-catching sculptural presence.
Contemporary Interior Display:
Historically placed near business entrances or shop counters to welcome guests (Senkyaku Banrai / Customer Prosperity), this charming vintage folk art statue serves as a unique statement piece for modern Japandi foyers, restaurant displays, or Asian art collections.
【Materials & Construction】
Core Material: Terracotta / Earthenware clay (Tsuchi-ningyo) with hand-painted polychrome pigment finish.
【Condition】
Exhibits fine, clean vintage condition overall with an authentic aged character. Physical condition notes include:
Honest age-related pigment softening, light surface rubbing, and faint paint chipping consistent with historical domestic display.
Earthenware body remains intact with complete structural integrity.
Please inspect all high-resolution detailed photographs prior to bidding.
【Period】
Circa 1950s–1960s (Mid Showa Period)
【Dimensions & Estimated Weight】
Width: 37.0 cm
Depth: 23.0 cm
Height: 39.0 cm
Estimated Weight: Approx. 5.5 kg – 7.5 kg
Large Vintage Japanese Fukusuke Statue – 39 cm Hand-Painted Earthenware Figure with Fan & Kamishimo Attire
【Description】
An exceptionally expressive and unusually large vintage Japanese Fukusuke (Lucky Servant) earthenware statue, traditional herald of good fortune, prosperity, and hospitality.
Artisanal Details & Cultural Symbolism:
Iconic Fukusuke Silhouette: Features the legendary oversized head, cheerful smiling face, and large earlobes—classic Japanese symbols of wisdom, luck, and abundance.
Traditional Ceremonial Attire: Draped in classical Edo-period formal Kamishimo attire with winged shoulder guards and a Hakama skirt, holding a hand-painted folding fan (Senshi).
Impressive Large Scale: Standing at 39 cm in height and 37 cm in width, this figure significantly exceeds standard desktop Fukusuke sizes, creating a bold, eye-catching sculptural presence.
Contemporary Interior Display:
Historically placed near business entrances or shop counters to welcome guests (Senkyaku Banrai / Customer Prosperity), this charming vintage folk art statue serves as a unique statement piece for modern Japandi foyers, restaurant displays, or Asian art collections.
【Materials & Construction】
Core Material: Terracotta / Earthenware clay (Tsuchi-ningyo) with hand-painted polychrome pigment finish.
【Condition】
Exhibits fine, clean vintage condition overall with an authentic aged character. Physical condition notes include:
Honest age-related pigment softening, light surface rubbing, and faint paint chipping consistent with historical domestic display.
Earthenware body remains intact with complete structural integrity.
Please inspect all high-resolution detailed photographs prior to bidding.
【Period】
Circa 1950s–1960s (Mid Showa Period)
【Dimensions & Estimated Weight】
Width: 37.0 cm
Depth: 23.0 cm
Height: 39.0 cm
Estimated Weight: Approx. 5.5 kg – 7.5 kg
