Japanese art: Unusual Gifts

When looking for unusual gifts you cannot wrong with Japanese art.  Japanese art comes in many different forms and some of the most popular are the kokeshi dolls.

Dolls

Kokeshi dolls come in a wide range of styles and personalities. They are often used in the house as good luck and to ward off evil spirits. These wooden Japanese dolls have a one hundred and fifty year tradition and are enjoyed and collected by many. The only trait shared by these adorable little dolls is that they have no arms or legs, but that hardly stops them from being the belle of any ball.

Business

Perhaps you wish good fortune on a business acquaintance, then for unusual gifts you may consider manekineko or happy cat. It is believed that the happy cats raised paws are lucky for business. A happy cat with a raised right paw is said to bring money and a raised left paws is beckoning to customers.

Consider the shichi- fukujin or seven gods of good fortune as unusual gifts. These little Gods bring long life and good fortune.

Home

The shodo, or Japanese calligraphy, also makes wonderful unusual gifts. The simplicity and beauty of the style stands out and makes an elegant edition to any home.  Hung on a wall in a frame even your name takes on a new meaning.

The oshi are an art form made with pieces of kimono material and chiyogami or Japanese colored paper. These three dimensional pictures are definitely a work of art.

The sensu, or folding fan, are also highly collected unusual gifts. Made from many different materials including silk these delicate items are also practical on a hot day.

Children

Chitimen are a type of small purse or bag made from kimono material. These colorful items are often given to children who delight in them. For a boy perhaps a shogi or Japanese chess set with hand carved pieces.

Japanese art makes for some of the most beautiful unusual gifts and is often greeted with delight by the recipient.