Ebisu Statue Value Guide

This mid-century Ebisu statue represents the Japanese god of fishermen and luck, distinguished as the only member of the Seven Lucky Gods with purely Japanese origins. Crafted between 1940 and 1960, these cast iron figures served as powerful symbols of abundance and good fortune for households and businesses alike.

What affects the value of Ebisu Statue?

• The physical condition of the cast iron, specifically the absence of significant rust or pitting.
• The presence of the original wooden fishing rod, which is often lost or replaced over time.
• The quality of the casting detail, particularly in the scales of the fish and the deity's facial features.
• The preservation of any original patina or paint applied to the iron and wood surfaces.

How to Identify Ebisu Statue?

• Verify the presence of both a fishing rod and a large fish, typically a sea bream or cod, which are signature attributes of Ebisu.
• Examine the base and figure for the specific weight and texture characteristic of Japanese cast iron from the 1940-1960 era.
• Look for the integration of a wooden element, often used as a pedestal or part of the fishing rod assembly.
• Check for the traditional jovial expression and earlobes characteristic of the Seven Gods of Fortune iconography.

History of Ebisu Statue

Ebisu is the Japanese god of fishermen and luck. He is one of the Seven Gods of Fortune and is the only one of the seven without Indian origins. He is often depicted carrying a fishing rod and a large fish, typically a sea bream or cod, symbolizing abundance and good fortune. This figure likely served as a decorative piece to bring good luck to a household or business.