Were they married? Did they have a child?
This 3 cm tall sculpture is a 'netsuke depicting the Lucky Gods Jurojin and Ofuku', which is on display at the Tokyo National Museum. Carved from ivory by Chounsai Hidechika, the figures look just like a happy family—even though I've never heard of them being married.
The label reads, "Lucky Gods Jurojin and Ofuku," but Ofuku is not actually a deity. Also known as Okame, Ofuku is a woman with a round face and a short nose. As her name suggests (fuku means "fortune" or "happiness"), she represents good luck. Interestingly, she was considered the epitome of a beautiful woman before societal standards shifted, transforming her into a symbol of an unattractive woman.
In contrast, Jurojin is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese Buddhist mythology. Based on a real historical figure, he is the god of the elderly and longevity. He is traditionally depicted as being about six feet tall with an elongated head and a long white beard.
I couldn't find any information about their marriage or whether they had a child, but I'm pretty sure they would have been the happiest couple and their child would have been so lucky!
If you're interested in the Seven Lucky Gods, check out this post! You can also read this post to see other netsuke.
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| Netsuke in shape of Jurojin and Ofuku 寿老阿福牙彫根付 |
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| The child must have the best luck 一番ラッキーな子供でしょ！ |
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