vintage japanese lucky gods clay piggy banks with antique patina

Love Japanese Style Like  We Do

Bring warmth, charm, and a little bit of good fortune into your space with this delightful pair of antique clay piggy banks, beautifully shaped as Ebisu and Daikoku - the beloved Japanese gods of luck and prosperity. With their aged patina and happy smiles, these figures exude character and nostalgia, offering not just decoration, but a meaningful connection to traditional Japanese culture.

A Glimpse into the Taisho Era:
Lovingly handcrafted in Aichi Prefecture during Japan’s Taisho era (1912–1926), these rare Seto ware figures are part of a tradition of engimono - auspicious charms made from clay, painted with a golden base, and delicately colored to bring them to life. Seto, one of Japan’s esteemed “Six Ancient Kilns,” is famed for its centuries-old pottery legacy.

Meet the Gods of the Kitchen:
Ebisu and Daikoku were traditionally placed high on the household kamidana (god shelf) in the kitchen, where they received daily offerings and prayers to ensure a household full of fortune and abundance.

Ebisu, the cheerful god of commerce, prosperity, and the sea, carries his signature red snapper (tai) - a fish often served during celebrations as a symbol of good luck.

Daikoku, the jovial god of wealth and harvest, stands atop two rice bales, holding a magic mallet said to grant wishes, and carrying a treasure sack -  all powerful symbols of plenty.

Beautifully Aged with Time:
These figures are made from a light bisque clay and have developed a beautiful, time-worn patina from decades spent near traditional kitchen hearths. The gentle darkening from soot, along with areas where the paint has peeled to reveal the natural clay beneath, give them a truly authentic antique character.

Unusually larger than typical examples, both figures feature coin slots on their backs, originally doubling as whimsical money boxes. However, we recommend enjoying them as striking and symbolic decorative pieces rather than piggy banks.

Condition & Presence:
Both figures are in very good structural condition, with their happy, smiling faces radiating joy and positivity. Whether placed on a shelf, sideboard, or altar, they are sure to lift your spirits each time you galnce at them.

- one god measures around 20 cm (7.9") tall x 13 cm (5.1") across x 12 cm (4.7) deep.
-total weight 1,800 gm.

(listing for Ebisu and Daikoku clay piggy banks pair)

SHIPPING INFORMATION
- please read our shipping notes in shipping policy.
- we use recycle packaging and wrap for safety, rather than appearance.

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.

Please message us prior to purchase with any questions you may have about our products.

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