A vintage magnified Japanese-chess (or "Shogi" in Japanese) "left horse" piece
ornament -- which has a horizontally-inverted horse-kanji (馬) on it -- made by Kei-ichi in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture—an area famous for its exquisite wooden Shogi crafts. The "left horse" originated in Tendo City, and such pieces are valued as gifts for people who have built a new house or started a business because the "left horse" is considered to be a guardian piece that brings good fortune and prosperity to business.
In Japan, large Shogi piece ornaments are traditionally displayed in entryways or rooms as symbols of good fortune and protection. They are highly valued as gifts for housewarmings or opening new businesses, with different characters carrying specific meanings:
- Osho (King): Represents leadership, victory, and successful governance or business management.
- Fuhyo / Tokin (Pawn / Promoted Pawn): Symbolizes steady progress, diligence, and stepping up in life or career.
- Hidari-Uma (Left Horse): A horizontally-inverted horse character that traditionally acts as a talisman to attract customers, bringing commercial prosperity and wealth.
[IMPORTANT Notice to U.S. Buyers]
As of October 17, 2025, eBay requires Japanese sellers to ship to the U.S. under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid). We cover all import taxes, fees, and customs duties for U.S. buyers, so you should not be required to pay any additional costs upon delivery.
[IMPORTANT Notice to non-U.S. Buyers]
We suggest making a discounted offer first or contacting us for a discount if you like, because your order will be shipped from Japan under DDU (Delivered Duty Unpaid) and may be subject to import taxes, fees, and customs duties levied by your local customs office, which vary according to your local regulations. This allows us to adjust the price so the total cost remains reasonable for you.