This vintage hand-painted shikishi card features Daikokuten (大黒天), one of Japan’s beloved Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin, 七福神). Depicted in a lively and humorous style, Daikokuten is shown holding his iconic magical mallet (uchide no kozuchi, 打出の小槌), from which treasures and blessings are believed to emerge. He stands atop a straw rice bale, symbolizing abundance, wealth, and prosperity, while golden coins scatter around him, emphasizing his role as a deity of good fortune.
Rendered with expressive brushwork and bright accents, this artwork captures Daikokuten’s jovial spirit, embodying luck, household well-being, and prosperity in business.
Shikishi cards like this, often used for paintings, poetry, or calligraphy, were traditionally displayed in homes or gifted to convey auspicious wishes. This piece makes for a meaningful collectible or decorative artwork, rich with cultural and spiritual symbolism.
