Kimekomi Maneki Neko (Traditional Japanese carved lucky cat doll) M-0811

Product Description

This is a combination of black and red. This pairing is believed to repel evil spirits and negative energy while inviting strong vitality.

Please note that it cannot be washed with water. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light may cause discoloration. The placement of the patterns varies with each individual piece, so the item may look different from the images shown. However, the quality remains consistent. This product is made to order.

Explanation of Kimekomi Dolls

Edo Kimekomi dolls are made by carefully refining a molded torso and embedding the edges of fabric into grooves carved into the torso, so that the fabric adheres closely to it, giving the appearance that the doll is wearing clothing. This process requires advanced traditional techniques. The fullness of the garments, such as sleeves and hems, is also crafted meticulously to avoid wrinkles, resulting in a unique sense of weight and presence. The technique of embedding fabric into grooves is called kimekomi, and the smooth, curved surfaces of Edo Kimekomi dolls are created through this method.

The origins of Edo Kimekomi dolls can be traced back to the Kamo dolls of Kyoto. These were first made by attendants (zasshō) at the Kamigamo Shrine in Kyoto, who carved notches into leftover willow wood from ritual boxes and inserted fabric into them to create dolls. These dolls were later commercialized by Kyoto doll artisans and eventually spread to Edo (present-day Tokyo), where they became widely produced around the end of the Edo period. Named after their distinctive method of construction, they came to be known as Edo Kimekomi dolls and have remained beloved to this day.

Explanation of Maneki-neko (Lucky Cat)

There are various theories regarding the origin of the Maneki-neko. One legend tells of a feudal lord returning from falconry who saw a cat beckoning him and decided to stop by a nearby temple. Thanks to the cat, he avoided a sudden thunderstorm that occurred afterward.
Another story comes from a temple was once poor、 where a cat raised by the head monk beckoned visitors, leading to the temple’s eventual prosperity.
Due to such legends, cats came to be regarded as symbols that bring good fortune, and the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) has become a popular good luck charm, widely cherished as a symbol of prosperity in business and happiness.

※Production Time for Made-to-Order Items(It will be made to order after you place your order) :
Approximately 1.5 months