This handcrafted wooden mouse figurine is a traditional Eto Ittōbori (干支一刀彫) zodiac carving from Ise Jingū (伊勢神宮), one of the most sacred and revered Shinto shrines in Japan. Carved from a single block of wood using the ittōbori technique — meaning "one-knife carving" — the figure captures the elegant simplicity and spiritual purity often associated with Ise's sacred crafts.
The mouse (子 / nezumi), as the first animal of the Japanese zodiac cycle, symbolizes cleverness, resourcefulness, fertility, and the welcoming of new beginnings. In Japanese folklore, it is also considered a messenger of Daikokuten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of fortune and prosperity.
This particular piece, dated Shōwa Kinoshinoe-ne (昭和甲子) — a zodiac year in the Shōwa era — comes in its original kiribako (paulownia wood box), marked with the vermilion seal of Ise Jingū and traditional calligraphy. Such carvings are often obtained as omamori (protective charms) during New Year's visits to the shrine and are treasured as auspicious talismans for the year ahead.
Simple yet deeply meaningful, this Ise Jingū wood carving embodies the essence of Japanese spirituality, craftsmanship, and seasonal symbolism. It makes a beautiful and powerful addition to any collection of folk crafts or sacred objects.
