Sakunami Traditional Kokeshi Seven Gods of Fortune

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Japanese Kokeshi of the Seven Gods of Fortune or Seven Lucky Gods created by traditional Sakunami 8th generation craftsman, Teruyuki Hiraga, date of birth, March 1, 1972. The Hiraga family is the "head" family in the Sakunami style kokeshi. Six of the gods measure approximately 1-7/8" tall with Fukuroku measuring 2-1/8". Condition is NEW/mint.

The Shichifukujin (Seven Gods of Fortune) are a group of Asian gods that travel in a treasure ship (takara bune) and dispense happiness to their believers. There are specific characteristics associated with each god.
1. Ebisu - god of fishermen, depicted carrying a fishing pole and/or a fish
2. Daikokuten - god of wealth or prosperity, carries a magic mallet or treasure sack
3. Benzaiten - goddess of the arts (the only female), carries a lute
4. Hotei - god of happiness and contentment, depicted with an exposed stomach for it is said if you rub his belly, it will bring good luck. He carries a bag of food and treasure
5. Fukurokuju - god of wisdom and longevity, carries a scroll which contains all the wisdom in the world
6. Jurojin - god of longevity, carries a staff or scroll which contains the secret to longevity
7. Bishamonten - god of war/warriors, carries a spear

This product was added to our catalog on Wednesday 07 March, 2007.