A vintage festive and joyful piece of traditional Japanese folk art, this handcrafted papier-mâché (張り子 / hariko) sea bream is a classic 縁起物 (engimono) a good luck charm symbolizing celebration, prosperity, and happiness.
The name "Medetai" (目出鯛) is a pun combining medetai (auspicious) with tai (sea bream), a beloved symbol in Japan often seen at weddings, New Year, and celebratory events. This fish features a round and cheerful shape, with adorable large eyes and golden hand-painted scales that pop against the vivid red body.
Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods (七福神), is often depicted holding a tai fish, reinforcing its connection to abundance, luck, and commerce. One side of the back fin is decorated with a wave motif, adding a stylish flair. It’s adorned with bells and a tag reading 「開運招福」(kaiun shōfuku, good fortune and happiness) and 「目出鯛」.
