Vintage Japanese Tougatta-kei ‘Uchide no kozuchi’ (lucky Mallet), Rattle and Whistle by Sato, Teruo (1919-1988)

Dimensions: 6-3/4”l x 2-0”dia.

Offered is an extremely RARE lathe-turned Lucky Mallet/Hammer that is part of Japanese folklore. It plays an important role in the legend of Issun Boshi (One-Inch Boy), from the Otogizoushi, a tale written in the Muromachi Period, which tells the story of a tiny hero called Issun Boshi whose height is just one sun (slightly over an inch). The mallet has both a Rattle and a Whistle that is said to “tap out” anything wished for. It has a bulbous form and is beautifully decorated in the Tougatta fashion. Here one sees the use of spring cherry blossoms on all sides of the mallet with Rokoru mono style of circular decoration on each end. Its’ pipe and mouthpiece have a wedged cut mouth to facilitate the sound and notched or opening for air to flow through to make a sound. The drum at the top of the piece spins and is hollow and filled with rice producing a rattling sound. Separating the two parts is a tubular piece that also spins and is added simply for complexity and to follow the formulated design of the Japanese lucky mallet. It is signed and dated by the artist.

Condition: Excellent with some indication of wear but remains a natural well-crafted object. No chips, cracks, breaks, missing pieces or restoration, and retains its original details and finish. The piece meets all the standards of the collectible Toys.