Preliminary identification

Japanese Hand-Carved Wooden Ebisu and Daikokuten Figures on Stand

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

A charming pair of hand-carved wooden figures depicting Ebisu and Daikokuten, two of Japan's beloved Seven Lucky Gods, mounted on a custom wooden display stand. Carved from a single block of light-grained wood, likely cypress or pine, the figures showcase traditional folk-art styling with expressive, joyful faces and symbolic attributes.

Story

For centuries, Japanese merchants and households have placed these two specific deities near their entrances or kitchens to invite prosperity. Ebisu, holding his sea bream, and Daikokuten, perched on rice bales with his magic mallet, represent the ultimate pairing of honest labor and abundant wealth.

Maker / Origin

While the back of one figure bears the carved signature '正春' (Masaharu), this piece belongs to the rich tradition of Japanese regional woodcarving (known as 'Ki-bori'). Local artisans across Japan, particularly in mountainous regions, have kept these carving techniques alive for generations, creating household talismans that bridge sacred folklore with everyday life.

Condition & Value

The figures and stand are in very good vintage condition with a warm, naturally aged patina. There is minor surface wear and light dust accumulation in the crevices, which is typical for decorative wood carvings of this age. Excellent preservation overall.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.