Tanuki statues produced according to the "Shigaraki ware" pottery style of Shigaraki City, Shiga Prefecture, are one of Japan's most well-known lucky charms. Believed to be bringers of commercial prosperity, they are often placed outside the entrance to shops. The standard tanuki has a good- natured face and a chubby, round body. He wears a braided hat and stands with his head slightly tilted, holding a traditional Japanese tokkuri (sake flask) and a promissory note (an unpaid bill) in his hands. Shigaraki ware tanuki are said to be the bearers of eight different positive traits. The tanuki's hat symbolizes protection from the elements, caution and awareness; the eyes represent looking at things with adequate attention and care; the face features a friendly, sincere smile; the belly symbolizes bold decisiveness; the tokkuri represents personal grace; the promissory note, trust; the money bag, economic fortune; and the tail suggests that true fortune comes from standing firmly and proudly. Also, the staff