Vintage Japanese Maneki Neko, Kutani-yaki Porcelain Figurine | Raised Moriage Auspicious Art

Dimensions: 7-1/2” h x 4-0” dia.

This red beckoning cat invites happiness from ancient times. It is made using the advanced technique of Kutani ware called Moriage. This beautiful Becoming has a beautiful, colorful overglaze called “Gosai (five-colored) and an additional technique of applying gold patterns called “Kinrande,”. The brilliant overglaze painting is unique to each kiln, and every kiln has its unique style of painting.  

This Maneki is a calico cat with a raised left paw in a beckoning gesture inviting financial success and good fortune. Its body design appears as if he is wearing an elaborate Kimono. The most elaborate surface is the back of the figure which is three-dimensional in surface ornamentation. The style incorporated into the surface design has numerous descriptions but one in particular which dominates the surface is called, Dotted Aochibu in which fine, small dots fill the area around a beautiful, three-dimensional pattern. The dots as well as the overall pattern are painted one by one in a layering style-showcasing superb craftsmanship through their small size and detail. This is done with a tool called “Icchin” to create the surface texture of both dots and the three-dimensional orange decoration, without losing the collective beauty of the entire ripple pattern. Here we also see other raised color swirls as part of the overall design called Shirochibu. On the back of the cat is a sunrise burst in white and a textile floral pattern in a circle of gold as well as on its sides. And finally, another layer of the design is cobalt blue identifying this Maneki Neko as a Calico breed. The cat has a beautiful and elaborate orange and gold collar with gold bells (protection) adding additional features. No marking as to the maker.

Condition: Superb, unique, displaying a beautiful fabrication. It is void of chips, cracks, breaks, missing pieces, or restoration, and retains its original details and finish. With its wonderful presence, it was protected and treasured by the previous owner.

Additional Information: Kutani ware is a type of pottery produced in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture and it has a history of over 350 years. It is characterized by the heavy brilliance of the five colors of green, yellow, red, purple, and navy blue that are applied to the bold and daring lines. Its long history has evolved through the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of people who have sought innovation while maintaining tradition. In the early 1700s, the Kutani kilns were closed, but about 80 years later they were opened and Kutani ware was revived. The beauty of the various styles and methods of painting is known as "Japan Kutani" and is highly regarded around the world.