An exceptionally rare and authentic Japanese antique wooden Maneki Neko (招き猫) dating to the Early Showa period, circa 1920s–1940s.
This remarkable hand-crafted lucky cat is carved from solid wood and finished in a striking black lacquer-style surface with beautifully hand-painted facial details, traditional red accents, and its classic raised paw gesture symbolizing prosperity, protection, and good fortune.
Antique wooden Maneki Neko examples from the Early Showa era are significantly harder to find than later ceramic production pieces, making this an outstanding acquisition for collectors of Japanese antiques, folk art, spiritual objects, or museum-quality decorative works.
To help preserve the wooden surface, a clear protective coat was carefully applied by a previous owner, stabilizing and protecting the piece while maintaining its authentic antique character.
With its expressive face, strong presence, and genuine age, this piece displays beautifully in collections, tea rooms, galleries, meditation spaces, or refined interiors.
Keywords: Japanese antique, wooden Maneki Neko, early Showa, lucky cat, Japanese folk art, black Maneki Neko, hand carved sculpture, Showa period, antique Japanese decor, rare collectible, spiritual decor, museum piece.
Additional Information About This Item
Item Type: Antique Maneki Neko
Origin: Japan
Estimated Era: Early Showa Period (circa 1920s–1940s)
Material: Solid Wood
Finish: Hand-painted with protective clear coat
Color: Black with hand-painted details
Symbolism: Prosperity, protection, good fortune
Condition:
Authentic antique condition with age-related wear, surface marks, paint wear, wood aging, small imperfections, and patina consistent with decades of age.
A clear protective coat was applied by a previous owner to help preserve and protect the wooden surface.
This is an authentic antique piece and not a reproduction.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the item description.
Provenance
Acquired from an official Japanese auction, guaranteeing authenticity and origin.
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