Takarabune Ship of Fortune

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Description:

SHOW CASING "TAKARABUNE"

Meaning - "Treasure Ship" and the story behind it,

(a decorative art glass piece of three dimensional stained glass, composed of 431 pieces of glass and

measuring 12" x 9" x 6.5").

In Japanese mythology and folklore Takarabune, was used to transport coral, gold, silver, gem stones, rice

and other precious commodities, and carry its seven gods of fortune. The tradition holds that the seven gods will arrive

in town on the New Year and distribute fantastic gifts to worthy people.

Benzaiten, who is goddess of everything that flows, such as water, words, speech, eloquence, and especially music, are all conveyed by the extension of knowledge. Benzaiten plays a biwa string instrument and also plays a role in bestowing monetary fortune.

Hoteison is the fat and happy god of abundance and good heath, relationships and children. Hoteil means "cloth sack" and comes from the bag that he carries his few possessions in, being poor and content, he always smiles or laughs.

Ebisu is the god of commercial prosperity, fisherman, good luck and workingmen. Ebisu was the first child of Izanagi and Izanami, born without bones (or, in some stories, without arms or legs) due to his mother's transgression during the marriage ritual. Ebisu struggled to survive, as he could not stand, he was cast to the sea in a boat before his third birthday. He eventually washed ashore and was cared for by Ainu. The weak child overcame many hardships, grew legs (and presumably the rest of his skeletal structure) and became the god Ebisu the day he turned three. He remains slightly crippled and deaf, but mirthful and auspicious none the less. He is often seen wearing a tall hat and holding a large bream or sea bass.

Fukurokujyu represents popularity, he has a large head and a long white beard, he carries a wooden staff and likes to play chess, he is the god of wisdom, prosperity, longevity, virility, and fertility, and is said to inhabit the same body as Jurojin who is the god of wisdom and longevity and happiness.

Jurojiin carries the scroll which is said to hold the wisdom of the world on it; he is also a heavy drinker and a womanizer.

Bishamonten is god of dignity, good fortune, wealth, happiness, righteousness and religious faith. He wears armor and a helmet and carries a spear which signifies faith and treasure.

Daikokuten is considered god of wealth, commerce, trade and household, particularly the kitchen, he is recognized by his wide face and he holds a mallet, otherwise known as a magic money mallet.

It is said that these deities have long been considered

gods of fortune and bringers of happiness.