Beckoning Cat

Yay! We finally have a "Maneki Neko" or a Beckoning Cat!

Maneki Neko are adorable cat statues that Japanese people keep in their homes and businesses to welcome visitors and to bring luck. A raised right paw supposedly attracts money, while a raised left paw attracts customers or guests. Since our cat has both of his paws up, that should attract money, visitors and luck. Sounds good, doesn't it?

In recent times, even the color of the beckoning cat's fur has significance. In theory, tricolor beckoning cats are especially lucky because this coloring is rare in the Japanese bobtail breed, after which the Maneki Neko is modeled.

Lastly, our Beckoning Cat is even luckier than a regular lucky cat because he has the "Shichi Fukujin" or The Seven Gods of Good Fortune on him.

On his head are Fukurokuju (God of Long life and prosperity), Benzaiten (God of Excellence in the arts, beauty and spiritual prosperity) and Jurojin (God of Longevity). On his knees are Bishamonten (God of Warriors) and Hotei (God of Happiness, Contentment and Prosperity). And, on his bag of money are Daikokuten (God of Wealth, Farmers and Trade/Commerce) and Ebisu (God of Fishermen, Merchants, Wealth and the only god with his own brand of beer.)

Usually, the seven luck gods are seen riding in their Takarabune treasure ship... but really, if given the chance, wouldn't you rather ride on a gigantic lucky cat? :) I guess we lucked out. Ha!