A vintage "Takarabune" ship sculpture. Crafted from ceramic and featuring polychrome painting, it bears the manufacturer's mark. Japan, 20th century.

"Takarabune" literally translates to "treasure ship"—the vessel that carried the Seven Sages of the Bamboo Grove from China to the Land of the Rising Sun in the 15th century. On the eve of the New Year holidays, the magical treasure ship Takarabune sailed into port and disembarked the Seven Gods of Good Fortune near Kyoto. These seven gods are ready to bestow happiness upon anyone; according to tradition, placing an image of the Takarabune under one's pillow on New Year's Eve ensures a prosperous year ahead.