By the late 18th century , these ceramic lucky cats were already appearing in shops. The demand for lucky cats primarily came from the food service industry ; larger, business-specific lucky cats, with their left paw raised to beckon customers and their right hand holding a small gold coin, were the main product. Conversely, smaller lucky cats, with their right paw raised to symbolize happiness and wealth, were for home use. It is said that the demand for these home-use lucky cats was no less than that for the former. As needs changed, the materials, designs, and colors of the lucky cat diversified. Originating in Tokyo , the lucky cat spread throughout Japan, with materials varying depending on where they were sourced. The most common are the endearing, white-based, painted versions resembling Imado ware clay figurines, followed by porcelain. These lucky cats, believed to bring wealth and good fortune, carry different meanings depending on their origin, pose, color, and other factors.
The saying about male and female cats
Maneki-neko (beckoning cat) has long been popular in Taiwan and Hong Kong. Authentic Japanese Maneki-neko comes in male and female versions. The male cat raises its right paw, symbolizing wealth and good fortune; the female cat raises its left paw, symbolizing good relationships and attracting many customers. In Japan, shops generally display more female cats because the Japanese believe that where there are crowds, there will be money.
☀️☀️The Right Hand Theory☀️☀️☀️
Legend has it that a merchant's lucky cat with its right hand raised can attract customers during the day.
Raising the right hand also symbolizes attracting wealth and happiness.
☀️☀️☀️The theory of the left hand☀️☀️☀️
Raising its left paw is to attract customers for business or special industries ; the left paw also symbolizes attracting people, a constant stream of customers, and strong sales. Taiwanese businesses love the business model of attracting both wealth and crowds, and Taiwanese businesses have popularized the Taiwanese-style lucky cat, which raises both paws as if shouting "Long live the king!" and has a gold ingot hanging on its belly.
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