FT430 - The three wise monkeys Nikkō folk craft 三猿
FT430 - The three wise monkeys Nikkō folk craft 三猿
This set of three small figurines represents the iconic 日光三猿 (Nikkō Sanzaru)—the “Three Wise Monkeys” associated with the famous Tōshōgū Shrine in Nikkō. Each monkey embodies a timeless moral teaching: see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil (見ざる・聞かざる・言わざる).
Handcrafted in a rustic, folk-art style, these omiyage figures are made with a warm, earthy finish that gives them a wonderfully aged and tactile character. Their rounded forms and expressive faces capture a sense of gentle humor and simplicity, while the subtle hand-painted accents—such as the soft pink details on the eyes and hands—bring each figure to life.
As traditional souvenir crafts, pieces like these were often purchased by visitors to Nikkō as protective charms and reminders of virtuous living. The trio also carries a layer of wordplay, as “zaru” (猿, monkey) echoes the negative verb ending “-zaru” in classical Japanese, reinforcing their moral message.
Compact and full of personality, this set makes a delightful decorative accent or a meaningful collectible, embodying both the spiritual symbolism and the approachable warmth of Japanese folk craftsmanship.
Size: 2 x 2 x 3cm
Compartir
