Yoneda Tokodo Kutani Mallet of Luck with Ebisu and Daikokuten

This Kutani ware home decoration features a design of a colorful lucky mallet called a "Kozuchi" with "Ebisu" and "Daikokuten," two members of the "Shichifukujin" (Seven Lucky Gods). It is accompanied by a cushion made of gorgeous red and gold brocade. The handle of the Kozuchi is adorned with a fringed red Edo braided cord.

A "Kozuchi" is a mythical lucky mallet that often appears in Japanese folklore. According to legend, anyone who holds the Kozuchi and shakes it will have their wish granted.

Ebisu (on the left side) is the god of commerce and is usually depicted holding a sea bream symbolizing a big catch.
Daikokuten (on the right side) is the god of property and typically holds a mallet.

Ebisu and Daikokuten are deities often enshrined together. There are various theories, but one suggests that Daikokuten is the father and Ebisu is the eldest son. In Japan, since ancient times, the left side (right from the viewer's perspective) has been considered the superior position.

The unique and traditional method used to decorate the surface of the mallet is a technique called "mori-e," which is similar to slip trailing. Thick paint is squeezed out of an "Icchin," a dispenser with a fine tip, and carefully painted onto the surface to create patterns. Mori-e adds decorative patterns and tactile textures to the smooth porcelain surfaces.

When you actually hold this mallet with both hands, you'll notice that it feels lighter than you imagined due to its hollow interior. Instead of simply feeling "cold", it imparts a pleasantly cool and refreshing sensation.

This item exhibits subtle color variations and encompasses deep, traditional Japanese shades. Enjoy the changes that occur depending on the intensity of light. Place this item in areas where the brightness of the space naturally changes between daytime and nighttime, such as by a window or on a shelf away from direct sunlight.

For over 100 years, Yoneda Tokodo has been creating beautiful decorative figurines. They have inherited the pursuit and dedication to the "essence" sought by the first generation, making it the foundation of their endeavors up to the current fourth generation.

This kiln produces items that incorporate unique carvings derived from Kutani ware, such as charms and auspicious items, and transforms them into crafted goods. In recent years, they have been continuously exploring Kutani ware that not only preserves tradition but also resonates with the current era.