Folding hand fans are a popular Japanese novelty gift.
Novelty items are mass-produced manufactured knickknacks, collectibles and other small items. They can be as simple as a key chain or something useful, like tableware or decorative artwork. Japanese novelty items are particularly popular and can be found online or in specialty stores.
Hand Fans
Hand fans have been around for centuries and originated in China. Early hand fans were made of silk, feathers or ivory, and had colorful depictions of gods, birds, animals and scenery. Hand fans are now made of a variety of different materials, from sandalwood to paper and silk, and can be decorated with any kind of motif. They can also be personalized with one's name or company and are popular wedding favors.
Tea Sets
Drinking tea in Japan is part of a cultural experience, a time used to reflect, relax and express one's thoughts. Novelty tea sets are an extension of this and are used for their simple beauty. Tea sets are usually made from ceramic, porcelain or cast-iron and have a variety of designs, from single hues to painted pictures of Japanese scenery and other aspects of Japanese culture.
Paper Parasols
Paper parasols were initially developed in China, eventually crossing the ocean to Japan. Paper parasols were often lacquered to help protect from rain and snow. They were also commonly used during fair weather to protect from intense sunlight. Novelty parasols are often used for decorative purposes. They are designed either with plain colors or simple motifs of flowers or koi fish.
Wall Scrolls
Wall scrolls originated in China many centuries ago and eventually made their way to Japan. They are often decorated with simple paintings of nature, the most common being the cherry blossom. They are also decorated with motifs of koi fish as well as stylized paintings of geisha and samurai.
Lucky Cat Statues
The lucky cat statue, also known as "maneki neko" in Japanese, is a common novelty gift. Originating in the Edo period (1603-1867), it comes in different colors, but is commonly seen in white. The cat beckons with one paw upright and is usually seen displayed in a window or entrance to a business. It wears a collar or bib, and holds a gold coin, which is symbolic of the good fortune and wealth it's said to bring. The cats are often made of ceramic and take the form of statues, key chains and other miscellaneous items.
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