Ceramic Figurine - Shoki, the Guardian Deity by Mizuki Yoshida

Mizuki Yoshida's Craftsmanship

Shoki Statue: A Wish for Amulet

A ceramic doll of Shoki, created by Kyoto-based ceramic artist Mizuki Yoshida.

With sharp eyes, a long beard, and a sword in hand, his figure is imposing. Shoki-san, who has long been revered as a symbol of warding off evil and misfortune, is expressed here in a powerful yet warm ceramic form.

While respecting the traditional appearance of Shoki, each piece is handcrafted, resulting in a striking and unique work of art.

What is Shoki?

Shoki is a legendary figure from ancient China.

Depicted with a long beard, dressed in official attire, and holding a sword, he is revered as a being that repels evil spirits and calamities.

Shoki-san guarding the city of Kyoto

In Kyoto, there is a culture of placing Shoki-san on rooftops as an amulet to protect homes from calamities.

Looking up at the tiled roofs of Kyoto machiya houses, you may sometimes encounter small Shoki statues perched on eaves or small roofs, watching over the street.

Similar to鬼瓦 (oni-gawara, demon roof tiles) and Okinawan shisa, this is a unique Kyoto sight born from the wish to protect buildings and the connection to local life.

Even today, with fewer tiled roofs and machiya houses, buildings with Shoki-san can still be seen in Kyoto, preserving this custom.

Mizuki Yoshida's Craftsmanship

Mizuki Yoshida began creating Shoki statues after encountering a Shoki-san on the roof of a Kyoto machiya house during her university days.

Drawn by its unique presence, she continues to create them by hand, unraveling the history and form of Shoki.

Sharp eyes, a beard and robe that seem to flutter in the wind, and a firmly gripped sword. While inheriting the characteristics of historical Shoki statues, the soft expressions and textures created by shaping clay by hand are also a unique charm of this work.

From small, palm-sized figures to large statues that become the focal point of a space, each piece has a unique handcrafted expression.

Shoki-san for modern living

While Shoki-san were traditionally displayed on rooftops, in modern times, they are also recommended as ornaments for entranceways, living rooms, or shops.

In addition to being a lucky charm for warding off evil and misfortune, they can be incorporated into daily life as an objet d'art that celebrates the culture passed down in Kyoto and the craftsmanship of pottery.

They are also recommended as gifts for new homes, store openings, or for overseas visitors who appreciate Japanese culture.

The large Shoki-san has a hole for rooftop installation. If installing on a roof, please ensure the roof's strength and the safety of the installation location, and secure it properly.

Shop owner's comment

This Shoki-san, with its impressive size, becomes the focal point of any space it's placed in.

Despite its stern and dignified expression, perhaps because it's made of clay, it also feels somewhat approachable, inspiring a sense of reliability when viewed.

If the occasion is right, such as a housewarming gift, store opening celebration, or a gift for someone overseas, I highly recommend this item.