The maneki-neko (招き猫) is a traditional populer Japanese figurine which is often believed to bring good luck to the owner.
In modern times, they are usually made of ceramic or plastic.
The figurines are often displayed in various shops, generally near the entrance.
Common colors are white, black, red, and gold.
Maneki-neko are sometimes referred to simply as "lucky cats".
Manekineko has many colors and each color associated with a different form of luck. The following color attributes are said to be as follows:
・White: Positivity and purity
・Black: Protection against evil
・Gold: Wealth and prosperity
・Red: Marriage, love, and other personal matters
・Green: Education and health
・Blue: Intelligence, wisdom, and success
・Pink: Love and romance
・Yellow: Stability, health, and relationships
Maneki-neko are traditionally depicted seated, holding a Koban coin, with one paw raised in a beckoning gesture.
The Japanese beckoning gesture is made by holding up the hand, palm down, and repeatedly folding the fingers down and back, thus the cat's appearance.
Maneki-neko can be found with either the right or left paw raised (and sometimes both). The significance of the right and left raised paw differs with time and place. A statue with the left paw raised is to get more customers, while the right paw raised is to get more money.
Hence it is also said that the one with left paw is for business and the right is for home.