wealth rat

Katsukawa Shunzan [Public domain, Public domain or CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

Here we see Daikoku. the Japanese god of wealth, with his magic hammer (the round-headed yellow item in his fist) and his white rat.  Rats are considered industrious creatures in Japanese lore, and industry brings reward - what better sidekick for a god of wealth?  This jolly image for a back-to-work Monday is by the artist Katsukawa Shunzan (active 1782-98).  Best known for portraits of actors, he took the time to make this lucky charm of a woodcut, and I hope it brings you all good fortune this week.