Tanuki figurine

bronze, cloisonné enamel; height 25.5 cm, width 13.5 cm, depth 21.5 cm.
Japan, 19th century.
Standing on hind feet, animal (Asiatic raccoon) with pointed muzzle, prominent abdomen and monstrously enlarged testicles; in front paws it holds a sake bottle and bill pouch. Its head is covered with a flat, round hat decorated with colorful enamel; its back is shielded by a mantle of vine leaves decorated with green, red, blue, white and yellow enamel. The figurine is also a kind of cassoulet for fragrances, with a lid - a hat - with three holes.
Tanuki is a popular fairy-tale character in Japan, generally benevolent to people, a kind of mascot that protects from troubles and helps make the right decisions in life and business; the giant genitals symbolize happiness, peace and wealth.