This is a tanuki 狸 (raccoon dog) bronze statue, which is considered a lucky charm in Japan. It is believed to have been made sometime between the Meiji and early Showa periods, approximately 100 to 150 years ago. Bronze statues of tanuki 狸 (raccoon dog) are very rare. The author is Houun 峰雲. In Japanese, tanuki sounds like “ta o nuku (他を抜く),” which means “to surpass others.” Because of this wordplay, the tanuki is believed to bring good fortune in business, success in one’s career, and prosperity. Additionally, the fact that this raccoon dog is holding a mokugyo (wooden gyo) is imbued with Buddhist significance and a symbol of discipline. The Meaning of a Tanuki Holding a Mokugyo Symbol of Self-Reflection and Self-Discipline A mokugyo is a Buddhist object that monks strike during sutra chanting to encourage "undisturbed minds and relentless practice." The raccoon dog holding this mokugyo is imbued with the meaning of "disciplining oneself and working diligently" and "never forgetting to reflect daily." Eliminating Worldly Desires The "knock, knock, knock" sound of the mokugyo is meant to "drive away doubt and evil thoughts." The image of a raccoon dog holding it represents the auspicious meaning of "warding off bad luck and fostering a good heart." Preparation and Prayer to Attract Good Fortune In Japan, raccoon dogs are considered lucky charms, symbolizing "outshining others" (tanuki), or "winning a competition." The raccoon dog striking the mokugyo also serves as a moral message: "Bring good fortune with hard work" and "Live with faith and honesty." In Japan, traditional tanuki statues often include eight symbolic features, each representing a moral or practical lesson for life and business. The statue weighs about 3.0 kg, giving it a solid and impressive presence. It makes a strong impact whether placed in a garden or at the entrance of a house or shop. Meaning of the Tanuki’s Good Fortune (Engi / Lucky Symbolism) “Ta o nuku” (他を抜く) — “To surpass others” → Symbolizes success in competition, business prosperity, and career advancement. The Eight Lucky Traits (Hassō Engi / 八相縁起) — These are the eight symbols commonly seen on Shigaraki-yaki tanuki statues (a famous pottery style from Shiga Prefecture): Kasa (笠 / Hat) – Be prepared and protect yourself from misfortune. Me (目 / Eyes) – Observe carefully and make wise decisions. Kao (顔 / Face) – Keep a cheerful smile to earn people’s trust and goodwill. Tokkuri (徳利 / Sake Flask) – Have gratitude for food and blessings; live generously. Tsūchō (通帳 / Ledger Book) – Value honesty and credit; build good business relationships. Onaka (お腹 / Belly) – Stay calm yet bold in your actions. Kinbukuro (金袋 / Money Bag) – Symbol of wealth and financial luck. O (尾 / Tail) – Representing stability and a happy ending to any endeavor. Other Meanings Marital Harmony (夫婦円満) Tanuki are said to be loyal and affectionate partners, living together for life, making them a symbol of lasting love and harmony in marriage. Home Safety & Good Fortune (家内安全・開運) Beyond business, the tanuki also protects the home, wards off evil, and brings overall good luck to the family. Placement Placing a tanuki statue at the entrance of a home or shop is believed to welcome good fortune, attract customers, and increase prosperity. Height 23.7 cm Width 12.5 cm Depth 11.2 cm Weight: 3250 g Condition: The condition is generally good. There is some discoloration, scratches, stains, scuffs, and fading. Please see the many photos provided. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL,FedEx or JapanPost for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-4 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 032020250323