Red Mori Lucky Cat 4.5 in
This adorable red lucky cat, or maneki neko, is painted using the mori-e technique, similar to slip trailing, which is characterized by raised decorative patterns. A thick paint is squeezed out of an icchin, a dispenser with a fine tip, and carefully applied to create intricate designs. Mori-e adds a tactile texture to the smooth porcelain surface, enhancing its visual appeal.
The vibrant red color of this lucky cat draws inspiration from the bright red berries of nandina, a plant considered auspicious in Japan. In the context of feng shui, red often symbolizes energy and vitality. The lucky cat with its right hand raised is said to bring good fortune to its owner.
In the past, Japanese farmers who lived with cats were believed to prosper, as the cats kept rats away from their crops. Over time, these feline companions became symbols of good fortune. Today, lucky cats are popular as charms for financial prosperity, and a lucky cat with its left hand raised is said to “invite people.”
