Daikokuten Riding A Mallet

This is a figurine of Daikokuten sitting atop a mallet, crafted using the Kutani ware technique. With its vibrant colors and hand-painted details, this imposing figurine will undoubtedly become a standout piece in your home, drawing the eye and capturing attention.

Daikokuten is a deity with roots in Indian mythology. Originally, he was depicted as a fierce god of destruction. However, after passing through China and adapting to Japanese folk beliefs, his appearance transformed into the benign figure we know today, carrying a large bag on his back and holding a kozuchi, or lucky mallet. He is one of the Seven Lucky Gods and is widely revered, with temples dedicated to Daikokuten found throughout Japan. In Japan, he is known as a god of bountiful harvests, good fortune, career advancement, and wealth enhancement.

The kozuchi is a mythical lucky mallet that frequently appears in Japanese folklore. According to legend, anyone who holds and shakes it will have their wish granted. The handle of the kozuchi is tied with a fringed red Edo braided cord.  

The unique and traditional method used to decorate the surface of the figurine is a technique called mori-e which is similar to the technique of slip trailing. A thick paint is squeezed out of an icchin, a dispenser with a fine tip, and patterns are carefully painted onto the surface.