{"title":"Folk Sculpture","description":"\u003cp\u003eA collection of Japanese folk sculptures sourced from our most recent trip to Japan. \u003cbr\u003eRead about my meeting with Daikoku collector Watanabe San here:\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/kansohouse.com.au\/blogs\/articles\/daikokuten-from-hindu-god-of-death-to-a-symbol-of-luck-and-prosperity\"\u003eDaikokuten from hindu god of death to a symbol of luck and prosperity\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-daikoku-figure-01","title":"Antique Japanese Carved Daikoku Figure - 01","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntique edo period well worn Daikoku figure. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI acquired this and a number of other Daikoku figures from a dealer in Tokyo who specialises in rare and unique folk sculpture, in his words Japan's Daikoku expert! We spent a wonderful afternoon talking about antiques and discussing the many nuances of the different sculptures, how to tell the age of the sculptures based on certain design features.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere is Watanabe San's description of this Daikoku Sculpture:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Daikokuten (18th-19th Century) \u003cbr\u003eThis is a wooden carving of Daikokuten, one of Japan’s most popular deities, believed to have been created over 200 years ago during the Edo period. \u003cbr\u003eTraditionally, divine or Buddhist statues (shinzo and butsuzo) were made by professional artisans. \u003cbr\u003eHowever, these specialized works were extremely expensive and well out of the reach of common people. Statues carved by ordinary individuals themselves, driven by a sincere desire to worship their chosen deities, are referred to as \"Minshu-butsu\" (Folk-Buddhist Statues). (Though the name contains the word \"Butsu\" [Buddhist], it encompasses both Buddhist and Shinto divine statues.) \u003cbr\u003eSince they were often carved by amateurs—such as carpenters or woodworkers who were merely imitating professional techniques—the craftsmanship is, in most cases, crude. Yet, these figures, born from simple, heartfelt faith, are sometimes considered more venerable than the \"genuine\" statues.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003cbr\u003eFor a long time, Minshu-butsu were largely undervalued in the world of Japanese antiques. Recently, however, their appreciation has been rising, especially among younger generations, often recontextualized within the movement of Outsider Art or valued for their \"Yurukawa\" aesthetic (a term suggesting something \"charmingly unrefined\" or \"loosely cute\"). \u003cbr\u003eThe first things that catch the eye when looking at this Daikokuten are the massive bale of rice and the large bag. Since the bale and the bag are symbols of good fortune and abundant harvest, the carver likely couldn't help but make them oversized. Carvings with Rice bails this large are quite rare.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe face is also very humble and endearing. Incidentally, when observing old Japanese divine and Buddhist statues, you will notice that many of them have turned dark or black. Daikokuten statues, in particular, are often pitch black. This is because Daikokuten is the god of \"food\/meals\" and was typically enshrined near the cooking area. The statue was thoroughly blackened by the smoke and soot rising from the kamado (hearth) or irori (fireplace). The fact that the soot has rubbed off the bale and the bag is thought to be the result of the figure being touched or stroked by hands during prayer.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTo me it seems like the bag was covered in some kind of paper or lacquer. A beautiful worn and old example. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRead more about my meeting with Watanabe San in our Article below. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures approx 11cm tall x 6cm wide x 7cm deep.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51894935355697,"sku":null,"price":179.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Daikoku_light_photo_-38.jpg?v=1760747819"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-daikoku-figure-02","title":"Antique Japanese Carved Daikoku Figure - 02","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntique early 20th century smiling Daikoku figure.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI acquired this and a number of other Daikoku figures from a dealer in Tokyo who specialises in rare and unique folk sculpture, in his words Japan's Daikoku expert! We spent a wonderful afternoon talking about antiques and discussing the many nuances of the different sculptures, how to tell the age of the sculptures based on certain design features.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere is Watanabe San's description of this Sculpture:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This is a wooden carving of Daikokuten, one of the most popular deities in Japan. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blessings associated with Daikokuten largely concern food and wealth, including a bountiful harvest, business prosperity, financial fortune, and general good luck. He is typically depicted wearing a hood, standing atop bales of rice, and holding a large sack of treasures and a magic mallet (Uchide-no-Kozuchi). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is believed that wealth pours forth when he swings the mallet in his right hand, and the sack on his left shoulder is filled with treasures. The most distinctive feature of this wooden carving is its incredibly charming smile. It’s the kind of face that instantly makes you smile too. Many people in Japan are interested in divine or Buddhist statues but feel intimidated by their solemnity. For such individuals, a gentle, approachable figure like this one is very popular. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe mallet is often broken or lost on these types of statues, so we are delighted that it has remained intact. Carved into his chest is a Hōju.The Hōju is a wish-fulfilling jewel originating from Buddhism, believed to have the power to ward off disaster and purify. It is thought that this sacred symbol was added to increase the statue's spiritual efficacy.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures approx 9cm tall x 6cm wide x 7cm deep. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51894936338737,"sku":null,"price":175.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Daikoku_light_photo_-16.jpg?v=1760746709"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-daikoku-figure-03","title":"Antique Japanese Carved Ebisu Figure - 03","description":"\u003cp\u003eA charming antique 19th-20th Century Ebisu figure\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI acquired this and a number of other gods and Daikoku figures from a dealer in Tokyo who specialises in rare and unique folk sculpture, in his words Japan's Daikoku expert! We spent a wonderful afternoon talking about antiques and discussing the many nuances of the different sculptures, how to tell the age of the sculptures based on certain design features.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere is Watanabe San's description of this Ebisu Sculpture:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This is a wooden statue of Ebisu-sama, a deity who has been worshipped since ancient times as the god of fishing. He is also believed to preside over business prosperity and a bountiful harvest, making him one of the most famous deities in Japan, known by everyone. He is considered great friends with Daikokuten, who carries a large sack and a small mallet, and the two are often enshrined together. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis particular Ebisu-sama carving possesses a highly unusual feature: its back is significantly hollowed out or scooped out. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI have handled over 300 Ebisu and Daikokuten figures, yet I have never seen an Ebisu statue like this. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConsequently, the reason why the back was carved out remains unknown. However, a close look at the back suggests that the hollowing looks like some kind of pattern. It appears to have been carved with specific intent, rather than just being simply hollowed out. It could be that the back may have been carved as a charm or a magical\/ritualistic pattern. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI also offer another hypothesis: the indentation on the back is shaped similarly to the sack carried by Daikokuten. It is possible that the statues were meant to be enshrined back-to-back. While the true reason may never be known, this is a wonderful piece that inspires a great deal of speculation.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI personally love the expression on this one and the face of the fish he is holding. The scalloped detail on the base is also very pleasing. This one is definitely a mingei folk art piece, not carved by a master which makes it even more charming.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 11.5cm x 9cm wide x 4.5cm deep\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51894937649457,"sku":"SF020","price":139.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Daikoku_light_photo_-05.jpg?v=1760746690"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-pair-of-daikoku-and-ebisu-figures","title":"Antique Japanese Carved pair of Daikoku and Ebisu figures -04","description":"\u003cp\u003eA beautiful antique Ebisu and Daikoku figure pair\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI acquired this and a number of other gods and Daikoku figures from a dealer in Tokyo who specialises in rare and unique folk sculpture, in his words Japan's Daikoku expert! We spent a wonderful afternoon talking about antiques and discussing the many nuances of the different sculptures, how to tell the age of the sculptures based on certain design features.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHere is Watanabe San's description of the pair of Sculptures:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This is a pair of wood carvings themed on Daikoku and Ebisu, the most familiar and beloved gods in Japan. \u003cbr\u003eBoth are ancient deities, having been worshipped across the country for over a thousand years. \u003cbr\u003eAlthough Daikoku and Ebisu are often enshrined as a pair, their origins are actually completely different. It is said that they began to be worshipped together about 500 years ago, when people started believing that \"Lord Daikoku and Lord Ebisu get along well.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe greatest charm of these carvings is their gentle expressions. Just looking at them is enough to bring a smile to your face. \u003cbr\u003eWhile the overall carving style is bold, the faces are rendered with exceptional detail, giving the impression that they are truly inhabited by a spirit. You will notice that Ebisu's arm is broken, but in the Japanese sensibility, this is not a major flaw. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRather, that \"scar\" allows us to imagine the long passage of time. It makes one involuntarily bow their head just to imagine how many people's wishes and prayers these two statues have listened to for over a hundred years. When you display them in your home, please be sure to gently stroke their faces or hands to show appreciation for their long service.\" \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEach sculpture measures approx 8cm tall x 6cm wide x 5.5cm deep\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51894938960177,"sku":null,"price":119.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Daikoku_light_photo_-10.jpg?v=1760746671"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-daikoku-04","title":"Antique Japanese Carved Daikoku - 05","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely stylised antique Daikoku figure. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI acquired this and a number of other gods and Daikoku figures from a dealer in Tokyo who specialises in rare and unique folk sculpture, in his words Japan's Daikoku expert! We spent a wonderful afternoon talking about antiques and discussing the many nuances of the different sculptures, how to tell the age of the sculptures based on certain design features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is Watanabe San's description of this Daikoku Sculpture:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"This statue of Daikokuten is one of the most popular depictions of this god in Japan. Although we have introduced many other wood carvings, this one is carved relatively skillfully. But what do we mean by \"skillful\"? We primarily introduce Buddhist and Shinto figures known as \"Minshūbutsu\" (Folk Buddhist Objects), which were carved by common townspeople in Old Japan. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSince these were not carved by professional busshi (Buddhist sculptors), they possess a simple and unique form. This particular statue appears to have been carved by a carpenter or woodworker who had considerable experience. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eNotice the detailed work on the costume, the sack, and the bales of rice—it's this fine execution that we refer to when we call it \"skillful.\" \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe highlight of this piece is his large, large ears. In Japan, ears like these are called fukumimi (\"lucky ears\") and are symbols of good fortune and longevity. His gentle expression is also very charming. He almost looks as though he is dozing, and we are sure he will warmly watch over the person who welcomes him into their home.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI like how flatly this one is carved, the designs look very geometric and stylised. It has a nice rich patina and is quite shiny from being handled. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 12cm tall x 6.5cm wide x 6cm deep\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51921990385969,"sku":null,"price":150.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Daikoku_light_photo_-22.jpg?v=1760746652"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-daikoku-06","title":"Antique Japanese Carved Daikoku - 06","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely stylised antique Daikoku figure. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI acquired this and a number of other gods and Daikoku figures from a dealer in Tokyo who specialises in rare and unique folk sculpture, in his words Japan's Daikoku expert! We spent a wonderful afternoon talking about antiques and discussing the many nuances of the different sculptures, how to tell the age of the sculptures based on certain design features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere is Watanabe San's description of this Daikoku Sculpture:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"Daikokuten (19th–20th Century) Since we've introduced so many of these pieces, you may already be quite familiar with Daikoku! Because he is the most intimate and beloved god in Japan, nearly every household once enshrined a statue of Daikoku. \u003cbr\u003eHistorically, in Japan, people believed that a deity resided in every single pebble and every single leaf—a concept known as yaoyorozu (eight million gods).\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003cbr\u003eHowever, as the economy developed and people's lives became richer, the culture of enshrining god and Buddha statues has largely faded. Even so, faith in Lord Daikoku remains deeply rooted. You can still see stores and restaurants named after Daikoku all over town. Furthermore, because of his very approachable appearance, he sometimes serves as a local mascot for town development initiatives. As the god of business prosperity, he is popular among company owners, who sometimes enshrine him on a kamidana (household altar) in their office. Lord Daikoku is such an accessible figure that he can truly be called a part of the \"Japanese heart.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003cbr\u003eNow, this Daikoku certainly looks as though he will bring good fortune. Pay close attention to the small mallet in his right hand. This is called the Uchide no Kozuchi (a magic money-mallet), and tradition says that when it is shaken, gold coins appear. A wood carving of Daikoku with such a magnificent mallet is a little rare, in my opinion. His sack is also impressively large; this sack is said to be filled with treasure. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe sincerely hope you welcome this statue of Daikoku into your home and that you feel both his power to draw in good fortune and the spirit of the \"Japanese heart.\"\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat I like about this Daikoku is the crisp details, the carving on the rice bails is especially fine, as is the carving of the clothes. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 13cm tall x 8cm wide x 7cm deep\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51922130403633,"sku":"SF023","price":225.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Daikoku_light_photo_-31.jpg?v=1760746608"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-carved-daikoku-mingei-folk-art-sculpture","title":"Antique Japanese Carved Daikoku Mingei Folk Art Sculpture","description":"\u003cp\u003eA well carved large wooden folk statue of Daikokuten. Late Meiji Period, dating to the late 19th, early 20th Century. The expressive rounded carving style is typical of northern Japan and Hokkaido where this piece was found.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI love the carving on this one, it is so fluid and expressive, the years of accumulated soot from a lifetime in the rafters of a Japanese home have been polished to a fine sheen giving the appearance of a rich lacquer. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaikoku is the god of fortune and wealth in Japan. Seen here standing on bails of rice straw, carrying a sack and a mallet. On the ends of the two rice bails and also on the end of the Hammer we see a Hoju motif. \u003cbr\u003eHoju is a sacred Gem symbolizing wish fulfillment, good health, wisdom, and the ability to overcome evil, which fits in with Daikoku's symbolism as an omen of good fortune.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 15.5cm wide x 16.5cm long x 27.5cm tall. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52941960806705,"sku":null,"price":350.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Japanese_Black_Daikoku_carving-11.jpg?v=1772063203"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-heavily-worn-mingei-folk-art-daikoku-figure","title":"Antique Japanese heavily worn Mingei folk art Daikoku figure","description":"\u003cp\u003eA heavily worn folk art carving of Daikoku. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDaikoku is the god of fortune and wealth in Japan. Seen here standing on bails of rice straw. \u003cbr\u003eThis example is well worn and rounded, which suggests it was handled frequently, often people would rub these figures for good luck as you can see by the rounded facial features. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere are some losses to the hands  and back of one of the rice measures. \u003cbr\u003eA lovely well worn example of a piece of mingei Japanese folk art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 16.5cm tall x 8.5cm wide\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53841926488369,"sku":"SF003","price":149.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Japanese_Worn_Daikoku_sculpture-10.jpg?v=1776466614"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-carved-wood-standing-daruma-figure","title":"Vintage Japanese Carved Wood Standing Daruma Figure","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely wooden carving of Daruma with fantastic carving of the face and drapery of Daruma's cloak. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI've always like this standing version of Daruma. After visiting the Rodin museum many years ago in Paris, I noticed that Rodin had one in his collection and when you look at his works on Balzac you can see that he took some inspiration from the form. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCarved from a light wood, most likely Hinoki or Sugi and then stained blacked. Some small chips here and there. Looks like the tip of the nose has broken off at some point in the past. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA fabulous expressive example. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 24cm tall x 8.5cm wide\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53841928421681,"sku":"SF002","price":189.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Japanese_Carved_Standing_Daruma_sculpture-8.jpg?v=1776467061"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-folk-toy-horse-chagu-chagu-umakko-red-and-blue","title":"Vintage Japanese Folk Toy Horse - Chagu Chagu Umakko - Red and Blue","description":"\u003cp\u003eHere we have a lovely vintage Mingei (folk art) Horse decoration or Toy from Morioka, in Northern Honshu. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Chagu Chagu Umakko Festival started roughly 200 years ago so that farmers could give their horses a day off after the rigors of rice-planting and so they could pray for their health at the shrine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHand made from wood, decorated in bright primary coloured lacquer. The Hair is made from hemp strands. This one has lovely woven ribbons and decorations and a bell under the mouth. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe name Chagu Chagu derives from the sound that the bells make when the horses move during the festival.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey are very similar in design to Miharu Goma from Fukushima Prefecture, but more brightly coloured and decorated with more tassles and bells. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom Moriaka, Iwate Prefecture, Northern Japan. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasures 6.5cm long x 9.5cm tall\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53907545751857,"sku":null,"price":55.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Vintage_japanese_folk_horse_Miharu_Goma-6.jpg?v=1776942205"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-folk-toy-horse-chagu-chagu-umakko-white-red-and-blue","title":"Vintage Japanese Folk Toy Horse - Chagu Chagu Umakko - White, Red and Blue","description":"\u003cp\u003eHere we have a lovely vintage Mingei (folk art) Horse decoration or Toy from Morioka, in Northern Honshu. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Chagu Chagu Umakko Festival started roughly 200 years ago so that farmers could give their horses a day off after the rigors of rice-planting and so they could pray for their health at the shrine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHand made from wood, decorated in bright primary coloured lacquer. The Hair is made from hemp strands. This one has lovely woven ribbons and decorations.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe name Chagu Chagu derives from the sound that the bells make when the horses move during the festival.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey are very similar in design to Miharu Goma from Fukushima Prefecture, but more brightly coloured and decorated with more tassles and bells. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn good vintage condition, with some wear to the paint and one small chip to the ear. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom Moriaka, Iwate Prefecture, Northern Japan. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasures 8.5cm long x 11.5cm tall\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53907548832049,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Vintage_japanese_folk_horse_Miharu_Goma_white-8_0c43138b-8e78-425a-a091-ca0cf00386d5.jpg?v=1776943475"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-folk-art-basho-haiku-matsushima-souvenir","title":"Vintage Japanese Folk art - Basho Haiku - Matsushima Souvenir","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely little folk art souvenir from Miyagi prefecture featuring a figure of the famous poet Basho. Written on his hat is a famous Haiku attributed to Basho. It reads simply:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatsushima, ah Matsushima, Matsushima  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBasho is arguably Japan's most recognised Edo period poet. You find memorials and dedications to his legacy all over Japan. He died in 1694.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatsushima is one of the 3 most scenic spots in Japan, a list compiled in 1643! It is famous for its many pine covered islands. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOn the sign posts next to the figure of Basho there are two signs, one for Matsushima and the other pointing to Sendai. A large city near Matsushima. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA curious folk piece with an interesting story about a famous place and a famous poet!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 8.5cm wide x 12.5cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53907572359473,"sku":"SF019","price":65.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Vintage_Japanese_Folk_art_figure_Basho_haiku-2.jpg?v=1777102946"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-drumming-kappa-folk-art-souvenir-from-aizu-wakamatsu-castle","title":"Vintage Japanese Drumming Kappa Folk art Souvenir from Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fantastically joyful drumming Kappa folk doll. Featuring bright and bold painting. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe drum features a fading picture of a castle and the kanji suggests this was sold as a souvenir of Aizu-Wakamatsu a city north of Tokyo. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn good vintage condition, a small spot of paint loss on the base. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 8.5cm wide x 11cm tall. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53907583533361,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Vintage_Japanese_Folk_art_figure_Kappa_drumming-7.jpg?v=1776944778"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-inari-shrine-folk-art-souvenir-kitsune-foxes","title":"Vintage Japanese Inari Shrine Folk art souvenir - Kitsune Foxes","description":"\u003cp\u003eA small folk piece from Toyokawa Inari, featuring two Kitsune (foxes)—the messengers of the Inari deity—resting atop a taiko drum.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eToyokawa Inari is a famous Shinto shrine complex in Aichi prefecture. It features hundreds of Kitsune fox statues. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn good vintage condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 6cm wide x 11cm tall\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53907617579313,"sku":null,"price":65.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Vintage_Japanese_Folk_art_figure_Foxes_on_Drum-7.jpg?v=1776945894"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-household-kamidana-shrine-with-daikoku-figure","title":"Antique Japanese Household Kamidana Shrine with Daikoku figure","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA lovely small Shrine called a Kamidana in the style of small Shinto temple.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKamidana like these were very popular in Japan, with almost every house having some kind of shrine. Shrines to Ebisu and Daikoku were also quite common in shops and prayed to by merchants, wishing to bring good luck and fortune to their business. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe figure of daikoku itself a work of mingei folk art. It is worn but still a beautiful example of Japanese folk art carving. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe shrine and figure have been darkened from years of exposure to soot, often placed high up where soot from the home fire accumulates. The figures often take on a deep black lustre from being handled and polished. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 17cm wide x 15cm deep x 23cm high \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54066092605745,"sku":null,"price":279.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Antique_Japanese_Daikoku_Kamidama_Shrine-05.jpg?v=1777546094"},{"product_id":"vintage-hand-made-japanese-ceramic-round-tanuki-statue","title":"Vintage Hand made Japanese Shigaraki Ceramic Round Tanuki Statue","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely hand made tanuki statue with a very round form and sweet expression.\u003cbr\u003eMade in the famed Shigaraki region just 1hr from Kyoto. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe have one at our front door as in the tradition in Japan. Tanuki (racoon dogs) are mischievous creatures in Shinto folklore, with the ability to shape shift into other forms.\u003cbr\u003eThey are seen as good luck symbols and are often placed out the front of houses and shops to bring good luck.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a great early Studio Ghibli Animation called PomPoko that wonderfully depicts these creatures, I highly recommend it!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOften mass produced tanuki are formed in a mould and lack the hand of the maker, this one has all the evidence of a hand made sculpture, from the hand formed hat tie, to the finger marks inside and the carved fur detail. An exceptionally creative and expressive piece. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFound on my last trip to Kyoto in May 2026\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 26cm wide x 22cm deep x 24cm tall. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54419173310769,"sku":"KH0011","price":179.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Antique_Japanese_Ceramic_Tanuki_Statue-01.jpg?v=1780570464"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-rustic-buddhist-wood-carving-of-fudo-myoo","title":"Vintage Japanese Rustic Buddhist wood carving of Fudo Myoo","description":"\u003cp\u003eHere we have Fudo Myoo the Immovable King of Wisdom in Japanese Buddhism. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn his right hand he should be holding a sword, representing wisdom, used to cut through ignorance and negativity. \u003cbr\u003eIn the left hand he holds a rope or noose with attached weights that is used to bind the enemies of enlightenment. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA more rustic carving, possibly even unfinished. As a carver myself I find these more rustic carvings some what alluring, unrefined and unpolished the hand of the maker is evident. I particularly love the graphic almost two dimensional nature of the crossed legs and feet on the lap. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere are cracks to the base, but I believe these to be stable. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIf you would like us to make a replacement sword, we can do that. But it will cost a bit more, so if your interested please let us know. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMeasures 18cm tall x 13cm wide\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Kanso House","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54556906258737,"sku":"KH0100","price":185.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/files\/Vintage_Japanese_Carved_wooden_Fudo_Mayoo_Sculpture-1.jpg?v=1781310690"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0843\/2399\/1857\/collections\/Folk_sculpture_Group.jpg?v=1760157335","url":"https:\/\/kansohouse.com.au\/collections\/folk-sculpture.oembed?page=2","provider":"Kanso House","version":"1.0","type":"link"}