"God of the Sea & God of Good Fortune" Tougatta-Kei (Family) | Shohichi, Sugawara

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Dimensions: 6-0” h

Shohicki was known for his interpretations of the Seven Lucky Gods, (Benzaiten; Bishamonten; Dikokuten; Ebisu; Fukurokuju, Hotei, and Jurojin). The Seven Lucky Gods are known in Japan as Shichi Fukujin. Adapted from various Hindu, Buddhist, Taoist, and Shinto gods and saints, they were grouped together in Japanese folklore around the 17th Century. This pair of dolls is very rare, and represents two of those Seven Lucky Gods of Good Fortune, (Ebisu and Diakoku).

Both figures are made from one solid lathe-turned piece of wood showing the wood's natural qualities. In this case, knots, (imperfections in the trunk of the tree, which are considered beautiful by the Japanese). Both are exceptionally rendered, and display the symbolic meaning and physical attributes, (a bag filled with the collection from a good harvest, and a Sea Bream, bringing good luck to fishermen), in a very historically-expressive way. Their smiling faces have large moustaches, ornamented robes, with overall features, all wonderfully detailed in black, red and white. Each has a traditional cap typically worn by the respective God. Both are signed on the bottom.

Vintage Condition: Each are in wonderful condition for their age, are “as is” with some scattered light wear or stain that does not affect the design, and which retains the original craft/workmanship and is commensurate with age. Any discoloration, chipping/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage is noted.