Here is a very beautiful statue of Daikokuten (大黒天), whose coloring and design were carefully done in freehand one stroke at a time wholly using paints and natural mineral pigments. Enjoy the world of Ms. Chihiro Takamura (篁千礼), who draws upon the school of Denchu Hiragushi, who greatly revived colored wood sculpturing from ancient Japan.
Daikokuten originated in India, where the deity was the Mahakala god of destruction, war, and wealth. Due to its great ability to gather treasures, the deity gradually became an object of devotion for wealthy merchants across the region, thus becoming the god of wealth. When it was brought to Japan, it became a god of good fortune, gained a gentle appearance, and gained an association with Okuninushi no Mikoto (大国主命), a god of Japanese mythology famous for bringing bountiful harvests.
The Uchide-no-Kozuchi (magic hammer) held by Daikokuten signifies the earth, from which rice and countless other crops spring forth. They say the more it hits with the hammer, the more treasures appear. It is also said that the deity's bag holds unlimited happiness within it. Together with the hammer, it symbolizes everlasting family treasures and good prosperity.