Ornament - Palm Sizead Shōki (Mini)A by Mizuki Yoshida

Mizuki Yoshida's Craftsmanship

Amulet, Shoki Statue

A ceramic Shoki doll made by Mizuki Yoshida, a young Kyoto-based ceramic artist.

Shoki has long been revered as a symbol of warding off evil and misfortune.

This guardian deity, which was once forgotten with the changing times, has been given new life.

What is Shoki?

Shoki is a deity originating from Taoism in China.

His majestic appearance is characterized by a long beard, official's attire, and a dignified stance with a sword in hand.

In Kyoto, Shoki figures were placed on tiled roofs and cherished as amulets to ward off disasters.

Shoki statues, believed to be stronger than demons, were placed on roofs as a substitute for gargoyles to ward off evil, and this practice spread as a custom in Kyoto during the Edo period.

It is deeply intertwined with culture and customs, much like gargoyles and Okinawa's Shisa.

Even now, with fewer tiled roofs, you can still see houses with Shoki figures on their roofs when walking through the streets of Kyoto.

Mizuki Yoshida's Craftsmanship

Shoki statues created by Mizuki Yoshida possess an appealing quality, maintaining their dignified appearance while exuding the softness and warmth unique to ceramics.

Her passion for Shoki began during her university days when she encountered a Shoki statue perched on the roof tiles of a Kyoto machiya (traditional townhouse).

Captivated by its presence, Yoshida creates Shoki statues that respect tradition while incorporating her own sensibilities.

From small pieces to large decorative objects that enhance any interior, all of them convey the warmth of handmade craftsmanship.

Mizuki Yoshida's Shoki figures are designed by carefully unraveling their history and historical background, accurately depicting the historical appearance of Shoki while adding the warmth unique to ceramics.

Their presence embodies the strength to protect families and spaces, while subtly bringing the beauty of craftsmanship and tradition into everyday life.

Shop Owner's Comment

This Shoki figure is a perfect size to display anywhere.

It is both majestic and charming, making it a recommended doll even for women.