Netsuke in Shape of Jurojin and Ofuku 寿老阿福牙彫根付

英語の後に日本語が続きます。

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! If you love netsuke, check out A List of Netsuke to see more than 40 pieces!

Netsuke in shape of Jurojin and Ofuku 寿老阿福牙彫根付

The child must have the best luck 一番ラッキーな子供でしょ！

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東京国立博物館に展示されていた「寿老阿福牙彫根付」です。長雲斎秀親作です。

寿老人は七福神の一人で長寿を授ける神。宋の実在の老人がモデルで小柄で長頭。お福（お亀）は丸顔で低い鼻の福の象徴。ということはこの子、最強の運の持ち主ってこと？

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