Lucky charms
Four-leafed clovers bring luck, and so do chimney sweeps – at least in Germany. People in Asian countries have very different lucky charms.
Paws up!
Feared as a gift, revered as a talisman: The Japanese maneki-neko, literally “beckoning cat,” promises wealth and happiness when its right paw is raised. A raised left paw is said to draw customers into your shop.
Welcome, Wealth
Chan Chu, a big old Chinese lucky frog with a coin stuck in its mouth, is not a pretty sight: Whatever you do, never turn him to face the door or happiness and prosperity will immediately depart through it.
Blessed with a Child?
There’s a curious new trend in Thailand, which has women carrying around life-sized dolls called “child angels” for good luck. After having them blessed by a spiritual leader, the women take them along virtually everywhere.
