This zodiac ornament from Kyoto’s Matsuzakiyama (松崎山) depicts the Rat (子 / Nezumi) – the first animal of the twelve-year Chinese zodiac cycle – sitting atop a stylized kagamibiraki mallet (開運小槌), a symbol of good fortune and the granting of wishes. Made with refined white ceramic and graceful sculptural lines, the rat is rendered in a minimalistic yet charming style, capturing both innocence and auspicious symbolism.
Matsuzakiyama (松崎山) refers to Shingon Buddhist temple Daikokuten-sha located in Kyoto's Kamigyo ward, known for its worship of Daikokuten and for issuing seasonal good luck charms and zodiac figurines. The temple is dedicated to prosperity and household safety, and its charming, hand-inscribed talismans and zodiac figures are sought-after New Year gifts in Kyoto.
According to the accompanying inscription, the rat is considered a messenger of Daikokuten (大黒天), one of Japan's Seven Lucky Gods associated with wealth, agriculture, and household prosperity. The mallet beneath it represents abundant blessings and prosperity, traditionally believed to bestow luck and drive away misfortune. This figure was produced as a New Year’s good luck charm, reflecting prayers for protection, success, and familial happiness.
Size: 15 x 9 x 12cm (Rat) 20 x 13cm (Plate) 15 x 10 x 21cm (Box)
