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by Yuka Morii
Clay sculpture
The legendary Morinji kettle that grew limbs, fan, and umbrella to delight audiences on the tightrope.
The legend of this yokai originated from an iron tea kettle, believed to be about 500 years old, that is still preserved at Morinji Temple in Tatebayashi, Gunma Prefecture. A tanuki transformed into the tea kettle, then appeared carrying a folding fan and a traditional paper umbrella while performing astonishing tightrope acrobatics. It is a mysterious and delightful folktale that continues to be passed down to this day.
The legend of this yokai originated from an iron tea kettle, believed to be about 500 years old, that is still preserved at Morinji Temple in Tatebayashi, Gunma Prefecture. A tanuki transformed into the tea kettle, then appeared carrying a folding fan and a traditional paper umbrella while performing astonishing tightrope acrobatics. It is a mysterious and delightful folktale that continues to be passed down to this day.