Charcoal brazier (hibachi) in the shape of a reclining tanuki

Description:

Japan, Meiji period
L. 20 cm
Cast iron, with a rounded, stocky body, sculpted in the form of a reclining tanuki (raccoon dog) with a finely detailed head, muzzle, folded ears and incised facial features; the entire surfaceis covered with a continuous Nanako relief decoration (fish roe pattern). The matching lid, also decorated with the Nanako pattern, features a central cast knob and a movable carrying ring, with two further movable ringsattached to the body. An opening cut out on the side of the casing. The base has a cast, slightly concave standing surface, visible casting marks, three small cast pins and a separate, round base/ash lid, the underside of which bears an old, handwritten inventory number ‘OA 607’.
From an old private collection in southern Germany, collected since the 1980s
Dark brown, age-related patina with very minor traces of rust; overall in good, unrestored condition, showing signs of age and use
Dimensions: H [ ] cm, Ø [ ] cm
The tanuki (狸), the Japanese raccoon dog, is one of the most popular figures in Japanese folk art. As a mischievous shape-shifter (yōkai), it is not regarded as malevolent, but as a good-natured trickster who enjoyed teasing people and playing pranks. This motif has been firmly established since the Edo period: a plump figure with a belly drum or sake bottle, a straw hat and an oversized scrotum as a symbol of prosperity. Particularly well-known is the Shigaraki-ware tanuki, which is still placed outside shops and restaurants today as a good-luck charm. The choice of the tanuki form for everyday objects such as this charcoal brazier reflects the traditional wish to bring good luck and protection into the home - minimal signs of wear and age, in good condition