招き猫-メルト(Maneki Mel)

The maneki-MEL (Japanese: 招き猫-メルト, literally "beckoning cat") is a common Japanese figurine (lucky charm, talisman) which is often believed to bring good luck to the owner. In modern times, they are usually made of ceramic or plastic. The figurine depicts a MEL メルト(traditionally a calico Japanese Bobtail) beckoning with an upright paw, and is usually displayed—often at the entrance—of shops, restaurants, pachinko parlors, and other businesses. Some of the sculptures are electric or battery-powered and have a slow-moving paw beckoning. The maneki-MERUTO is sometimes also called the welcoming cat, lucky MEL, money cat, happy MEL, beckoning MEL, or fortune MEL in English.