This is an unglazed Tanuki (raccoon dog) holding a sake bottle and a choko. I has a very rich patina on the clay caused by being buried in the coals of a wood kiln firebox.
The Tanuki character is to the Japanese sort of what the Kokopelli character is to the Native Americans..... "The Trickster". Tanuki figures abound in Japan as they are thought to bring good luck for businesses. They are slightly risqué'...... as they are anatomically well endowed. To learn more in general about the tanuki character, please click
here. #8000$85.00........14.5 cm h. x 10 cm w x 8 cm d (6 3/4" h x 3 1/2" w x 3 1/4" d).......Available
These sculptures are individually crafted..... while similar to each other, no two are exactly the same. Sizes are approximate. Some hold sake bottles, some hold sake casks. The bottles and casks are different. Each tanuki's face is unique, as is his hat. Small details on each piece vary.
Put one out in your garden for good luck!
John Baymore's Virtual Gallery
© 2001 J. Baymore all rights reserved
Last modified on
02/28/2003 01:11:58 PM