Click a photo to enlarge it

Japanese Hariko Tiger | Hand-Painted Washi Papier-Mâché | Folk-Craft Ornament for Good Fortune and Protection from Evil

The Japanese hariko tiger is one of the representative works of traditional Japanese folk craft. Made by hand using the washi papier-mâché (hariko) technique and finished with vivid painting, it fully expresses the simple beauty of Japanese regional crafts and their culture of auspicious symbols. The hariko tiger dates back to the Edo period, when it was first made as an auspicious ornament for blessings and for warding off evil. It is often seen in traditional customs such as the Tango no Sekku festival, Boys' Day and celebrations for newborns, symbolizing healthy growth, courage and resilience, peace and good fortune, and the protection of the home. This piece is shown in a tense crouching pose, mouth wide open and tail raised high, with hand-painted black stripes, a bright red mouth and an exaggerated expression, giving it the strong character of Japanese rustic folk art. The whiskers are made of natural material, adding vitality and collectable charm; it is a work of Japanese folk art combining cultural value with striking visual impact. (Ears damaged)

Price NT$ 4,500 ≈ US$ 140(Approximate amount; actual prices are in New Taiwan Dollars)

Dimensions: L 48 × W 17 × H 51 cm
Category: Decorative Objects

Online payment and delivery are currently available within Taiwan only. Overseas shipping costs vary by country — please contact us for a quote.

Back to Explore Antiques

Features

◆ Traditional Japanese Hariko Papier-Mâché

Hariko is a long-established Japanese folk craft in which washi paper is pasted in layers over a form and then hand-painted by the maker; the pieces are light in weight yet full of character, and each shows the individuality of handwork.

◆ An Auspicious Charm for Fortune and Protection

In Japanese culture the tiger stands for courage, strength, health, longevity and protection from evil, so hariko tigers are often placed in homes, shops or near shrines to invite good fortune, guard the household and drive off bad influences.

◆ Hand-Painted Folk Craft

The tiger is painted in bright orange with black stripes and white legs; the brushwork is bold and playful, keeping intact the plain, free and lively style of Japanese folk craft.

◆ Large Display Size

At 48 cm long and 51 cm high it is large enough to draw the eye in an entrance hall, display cabinet, shop or arts space, and can become the focal point of a room.

◆ For Collecting and Decoration

Besides being a folk-craft collectable, it suits Japanese interiors, retro shopfronts, cafés, arts spaces and exhibition displays, carrying both cultural meaning and artistic interest.

Specifications

Dimensions	L 48 × W 17 × H 51 cm