Maneki Hyoutan
beckoning gourds

Gourds are priced $15 - $50 US depending on the size and design. 
All gourds come with a chirimen and microsuede pillow stuffed with rice.
All gourds on this page are sold unless otherwise marked.

  click on the images below to view full pictures with details
     
   
 

This gourd celebrates motherhood and stands 6 inches high.  On one side is the kanji for safe pregnancy/birth and on the other, the kanji for smart children.  The pillow features traditional Japanese toys. This gourd costs $35 US.

  
This gourd measures about 7 inches and features both a Maneki Neko and Daruma*.  The neko on the opposite side of this gourd is holding his own little wishing Daruma.  This gourd sold for $50 US. Here is my second gourd, measuring 2" x 4" (not including the pillow or stem).  Again, the collar is chirimen.  On his back he has a crane and tortoise, which represent good fortune and long life. This is the first "bottle" gourd I painted, around 3-4 inches high.  The collar is chirimen silk made into a roping. The Kanji on his back says "big luck."  He stood about five inches high and was another present for my friend Lisa.

*The Daruma is based on the story of a Buddhist monk who meditated for so long he lost the need for arms and legs.  When you get one, you paint in one eye and make a wish.  If the wish comes true, you fill in his other eye. 
     

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