A charming vintage Maneki Neko (招き猫) made in the tradition of Tokoname-yaki (常滑焼), one of Japan’s most historic ceramic wares. This piece is a Baigetsu Maneki-neko (梅月 招き猫), traditionally produced by Baigetsu Tomimoto Ningyoen (梅月冨本人形園), a long-established workshop in Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture. Tokoname is one of Japan’s major centres of Maneki Neko production and is often credited with producing around 80% of the country’s ceramic lucky cats. Baigetsu is among the notable workshops that have helped preserve this distinctive local craft tradition.
Tokoname-yaki itself has a history stretching back to the medieval period and is counted among the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan (日本六古窯). While Tokoname is especially famous for its reddish-brown stoneware and teapots, the city also became renowned for its highly recognizable ceramic Maneki Neko, often characterized by large expressive eyes, rounded bodies, and dramatically raised paws.
This example features a glossy black glaze with vivid red ears and collar, yellow-and-blue eyes, delicate painted whiskers, and a golden bell. The bold facial expression and hand-finished details give the piece a wonderfully nostalgic character.
In Japanese tradition, the Maneki Neko is an auspicious engi-mono (縁起物) displayed in homes, shops, and businesses to invite good fortune. The raised paw symbolically beckons luck and favorable opportunities, while black Maneki Neko are traditionally associated with protection and warding off misfortune.
