​The Maneki-neko, commonly known as the "beckoning cat" or "lucky cat," is a traditional Japanese figurine believed to bring good luck and prosperity to its owner. Typically crafted from ceramic or plastic, it portrays a cat—often a calico Japanese Bobtail—with one paw raised in a beckoning gesture. This gesture, with the palm facing downward and fingers moving in a downward motion, is customary in Japanese culture to signal someone to come closer.