Maneki-neko is a traditional Japanese figurine. The figure of a cat raising its front paw is commonly found in many places in Japan. It is supposed to attract good luck, prosperity and customers. The term “maneki-neko” can be literally translated from Japanese as “calling cat.” Originally, Japanese artisans created “lucky cat” figurines out of ceramic. Over time, they began to produce them from Chinese porcelain, metal, wood and precious stones. The popularity of the figurine spread from Japan to China and then to other countries.
History of the Maneki-NekoLucky Cat .
There are many legends surrounding the origin of the paw-raising cat figurine. In all versions, the benevolent creature saves people from misfortunes, often sacrificing its own life. In one of the more popular legends, the cat saves its old owner from poverty. In Asakusa, a poor woman could no longer feed her beloved cat. Unable to bear the animal’s suffering, she was forced to banish it so it could fend for itself. One night, the cat appeared to her in a dream and advised her: “Make a clay figurine and sell it, and you will always have abundance.” This is what happened.
Another legend says that the prototype of the lucky symbol was the cat of a poor monk from Tokyo’s Gotoku-ji temple. One night, a violent storm broke out near the temple. A wanderer who had taken shelter from the rain under a tree noticed movement at the temple door. It turned out to be a cat waving its paw, as if inviting him inside. The wanderer took advantage of the unusual invitation. Soon after, the spot where he had recently been standing was struck by lightning. The wanderer, who turned out to be a wealthy feudal, showered the temple with valuable gifts in gratitude for saving his life.
The significance of Maneki-Neko’s pawpositions and accessories .
The classic “lucky cat” lifts its front left paw. Such a talisman attracts customers to stores, businesses, restaurants. It is recommended to place the figurine on the windowsill or at the entrance to “encourage” visitors.
A cat with its right paw raised attracts wealth, money, luck, wish fulfillment and all prosperity to its owner. This type of amulet is popular among non-business people.
It is believed that both the right and left raised paw attract business-related luck. The left paw is for nighttime activities such as bars, geisha houses and restaurants, while the right paw is favorable for daytime business.
When both paws are raised, the statue symbolizes protection of home and business, but owners of such statues are often viewed negatively – believing that greed does not bring good luck.
Coin: represents wealth and material prosperity.
Medallion and bell: can act as a protective amulet or symbolize wealth and material prosperity. They are an expression of respect and concern for the cat and its comfort. The golden bell symbolizes value, both material and spiritual. Despite its Japanese origin, the maneki-neko has gained great popularity as a symbol of good luck in Chinese business. Among Chinese businesses, gold cat figurines are particularly prized. Gold is associated with determination, wealth and business prosperity.
On the figurine’s chest there are often plaques with inscriptions – kanji characters meaning “good luck,” “immeasurable wealth” or “prosperity.” There is also often a bell, which with its sound attracts good luck to the house.
Cats lying on their stomachs or sides symbolize comfort, health, pleasure. In Japan, they are presented to children and young mothers.
The height of the raised paw also has significance. The higher the raised paw, the greater the fortune, luck or prosperity the cat attracts. Usually, however, the paw is raised to a height of about ear level.
Figurines attracting wealth and good luck can be found in almost every home. A cat attracting visitors is more often found in salons, stores or cafes.
Choosing the color of the “cat amulet” Maneki-Neko.
Traditionally, the maneki-neko comes in three colors. The three-color cat is modeled after the Japanese cat breed and is the most popular and traditional color of maneki-neko, bringing good luck, prosperity and success.
There are also figurines in red, black, and recently appeared in shades of pink, blue and gold. The color of the figurine is chosen depending on its purpose. Here are the most popular colors and their meanings:
- red: protection from diseases such as smallpox and measles;
- pink: attracts love, romance and harmonious relationships;
- red: protects against the evil eye and disease;
- white: attracts joy and a sense of happiness;
- mottled: spots of two colors symbolize the highest level of happiness;
- black: protection from dangers and evil, acts as an amulet and talisman;
- blue, green: supports people associated with science – pupils, students, teachers and scientists, improves academic performance;
- gold: attracts wealth, prosperity, success and good luck in business.
Maneki-Neko jewelry.
Amulets are often equipped with additional elements. A red collar or scarf symbolizes prosperity. Magical power increases when an animal holds a goldfish. An elegant necklace or velvet pillow testify to the owners’ care and respect for their pet. In return, the cat brings various benefits. The bell represents material and spiritual treasures.
For financiers and entrepreneurs, a talisman with a coin with the hieroglyph “million ryo” is appropriate. In the Edo era, “ryo” meant a large gold coin, and the holder of a million ryo was considered extremely wealthy.
The Japanese are so attached to this symbol that Maneki-Neko even has its own special day – September 29 each year, although it is not a public holiday.