Maneki-neko is a Japanese tailsman It is also named Beckoning Cat. The Chinese Merchants call it ‘Lucky Cat’ It is a figurine or a clock that brings money and good luck into its owner’s business or home.

They are usually made of ceramic or plastic, its upraised paw means “Welcome.” It comes in a variety of colors red, white, black etc.

According to Japanese folklore the Maneki-neko’s raised paw attracts money and good fortune to your home, and the paw held close to the body helps keep it there. Maneki-neko is often used in decorating with Feng Shui.

According to Historians…

Maneki-neko origins began in Tokyo or Kyoto Japan in the Edo period. It was first mentioned in the Bukō nenpyō’s (a chronology of Edo) entry dated 1852.

Others have noted the similarities between the maneki-neko‘s gesture and that of a cat washing its face. There is a Japanese belief that a cat washing its face means a visitor will soon arrive.

“Joruri-machi Hanka no zu” by Utagawa Hiroshige, 1852 (public domain.)

Maneki-neko is mentioned in several Japanese and Chinese folktales. Here is one example of the many folktales…

The stray cat and the shop: The operator of an penniless shop (or inn, tavern, temple, etc.) takes in a famished stray cat despite barely having enough to feed herself.

The indebted cat sits in the front of the store beckoning customers, thus bringing affluence as a bonus to the generous proprietor. Since then, the “beckoning cat” has been a symbol of good fortune for small business owners.

I love the Maneki-neko! It makes a great house warming gift or a gift to a new business.

Source and References:

Simon, Gwladys Hughes (July–September 1952). “Some Japanese Beliefs and Home Remedies”. The Journal of American Folklore. 65 (257): 281–293

Wiki-Commons, photos.