117 - JAPAN - 20th century

JAPAN - 20th century A rare, large cast-iron lantern depicting a standing tanuki (狸). The figure is depicted standing, with its hands resting on its prominent belly, which is adorned with the openwork kanji character “八” (hachi), meaning “eight.” This number refers to the eight auspicious attributes traditionally associated with the legendary tanuki, a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The lantern features openwork details and is topped with a straw hat, also made of cast iron, resting on its head. At the back, two openings provide easy access to the interior of the body for placing and lighting a candle. Dimensions: Height 54.5 cm, width 27 cm, depth 27 cm. Weight: 12.2 kg (Signs of wear, traces of rust ...