large bamboo maneki neko lucky cat with abacus - vintage japanese decor for good luck

Love Japanese Style Like We Do

Add a touch of vintage charm to your home or office with this quaint Japanese maneki neko lucky cat.  Crafted from bamboo, this larger sized cat,  holding an abacus,  is believed to beckon in wealth and good luck. Perfect for infusing positive energy and a touch of nostalgia into any space. 

This captivating maneki neko is hand-carved from the top section of a bamboo trunk, offering a unique glimpse into the artistry of Japanese folkcraft. Popular during the mid-Showa era, these wooden cats varied in size, typically ranging from around  6” to 11”. Their shape was influenced by the natural form of the bamboo section from which they were crafted. Traditionally, these cats held either an old koban coin, or an abacus in front of their bodies. A bell or a medal with the Japanese kanji for good luck (fuku) was suspended from their collars – all symbols of good fortune and luck.

This  cat has its right arm raised, beckoning in good fortune and money. Its upright ears and wide-open eyes are diligently searching for good luck from distant places. Its facial expression is adorable. The large bell suspended from its collar is said to ward away evil and bad luck. 

The cat holds a traditional Japanese abacus, once used for shop accounting and a clear symbol of financial success. Unusually adorned with a gold-colored collar, bell, and abacus, this piece is a rare treasure that stands out from the more common and simple versions.

This beauty is in good condition with a lovely, darkened patina that speaks to its age and character. As with many antique bamboo goods, there are a few small cracks – one on the arm holding the abacus and another on the leg on the opposite side. These minor imperfections only add to the charm and authenticity of this treasured piece. The cat does rock slightly but stands firmly and can be displayed with ease.

This style of maneki neko is exhibited  in the Mingei International Museum in California as part of the museum’s collection, donated by Billie Moffitt. Its inclusion in such a collection underscores the value and cultural significance of this particular style of folk art.

A rare gem for collectors and those who appreciate the beauty of Japanese mingei folkcraft, this maneki neko is not just a lucky charm – it’s a work of art, a piece of history, and a conversation starter for any space.

- measures around 29 cm (11.4”) tall x 16 cm (6.3”) across x 13 cm (5.1”) deep. 
- weighs 1,140 . 

(listing for bamboo cat with abacus only)

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ABOUT OUR VINTAGE, ANTIQUE AND OTHER ITEMS
We list pieces we feel are worthy of display. There may be scratches, dents, fading and signs of wear and tear. We try to explain the condition of each item exactly, but may miss something.

Information regarding the item and it’s age is obtained from dealers and our personal research. We do our best to give you the correct information but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this information.

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MANEKI NEKO
Maneki neko, or the beckoning cat, is a good luck charm that dates back to the Edo era. It was traditionally used by businesses to beckon in customers and money. A raised left paw beckons in customers and a raised right paw beckons in money and good fortune.  

These days, not just businesses, but almost every Japanese household has a maneki neko for good luck. Sometimes both of the paws are raised! There are so many different kinds of maneki neko and they really make a wonderful collection item.