This Shōfuku Eto (招福干支) “Tora-doshi” (寅歳, Year of the Tiger) figurine by Gahō (雅峰) of Yakushigama (薬師窯) is a refined expression of zodiac symbolism rendered in elegant ceramic form. Crafted in a soft, luminous white glaze, the tiger stands in a gentle, approachable posture, its rounded body and simplified features reflecting the warmth and charm of traditional Japanese folk aesthetics.
The tiger’s calm, almost childlike expression softens the animal’s usual fierceness, transforming it into a guardian figure that embodies courage, protection, and forward momentum for the year it represents. As one of the twelve zodiac animals, the tiger symbolizes strength, determination, and the dispelling of misfortune—qualities especially invoked in New Year decorations meant to invite good fortune into the home.
Yakushigama, a celebrated Japanese kiln with a heritage spanning over a thousand years, is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship in seasonal ornaments and folk-inspired figurines. This piece reflects that legacy through its smooth glazing, careful hand-painted details, and balanced proportions. Presented in its original green patterned box with an explanatory leaflet, the figurine is both a decorative talisman and a collectible work of ceramic artistry, embodying the enduring spirit of Japanese New Year traditions.
