This Maneki-neko (beckoning lucky cat) is a vintage piece of Takasaki Hariko (高崎張子), a traditional papier-mâché craft from Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. Known for their soft, rounded forms and hand-painted folk-style features, Takasaki Hariko has been a beloved form of omiyage (souvenir) and engimono (lucky charm) since the Edo period.
Takasaki Hariko originated over 200 years ago and developed alongside the growth of the local Daruma-making industry. Using the same papier-mâché technique, local artisans began crafting a variety of lucky figurines, including tigers, zodiac animals, and the ever-popular Maneki-neko. These lightweight, hollow figures are molded from clay forms, layered with washi paper, and then hand-painted in bold, cheerful colors.
This particular figure features a Edo period styled cat with bold red and blue accents, a blue bib with polka dots, and the signature raised paw believed to attract good luck and customers. With its naïve expression and handmade imperfections, it carries the warm and nostalgic feel of mid-Showa-era folk toys.
A wonderful example of regional Japanese folk art, perfect as a collectible or a unique gift to bring luck and charm into any space.
