Antique sculpture of the god Ebisu with carp. Bronze, patina. Japan, 20th century

Ebisu was the god of the morning sun and the patron of children. Over time, this character became the deity of trade in Japan. The fish in Ebisu's hands began to be perceived as a symbolic reward for honesty in trading matters. Some netsuke depict a smiling, bearded Ebisu hugging a fish he has caught with his hands. Such a figurine was associated with an old proverb that stated that it is difficult to catch a sacred carp with bare hands in clear water.