Hariko no Tora

Second-hand product (only one in stock), no missing pieces, few scratches. 
Dimensions: 11cm (length) x 7cm (height) x 4.2cm (width) (4.33 in x 2.75 in x 1.65 in)
Material: Ceramic
Handmade and handpainted in Japan

In Japan, tiger statuettes (tora in Japanese) are given to young boys to wish them good growth and protect them from disease. They are said to watch over the home during major epidemics, and to ward off evil spirits.

This friendly little tiger is also inspired by another traditional statuette emblematic of the Aizu region: the little red cow Akebeko, which shares the same protective properties against disease.

Unlike traditional papier-mâché models, this version has been crafted in ceramic by a talented artisan, making it unique.
The head and body are linked by a rod and, as it moves, the statuette nods gently.