anthropology.uci.edu: Maneki Neko: The beckoning cat. Citat: "...One thing we do know for sure is that the Maneki Neko originated from Japan. Its literal translation is “invitation cat”...Nevertheless, the classic origin story typically involves a poor restaurant, bar, or temple where the owner takes in a hungry and neglected cat. After being cared for and loved, the cat sits in front of the store beckoning to people passing by, attracting customers, and thus returning the kindness of the owner by bringing prosperity...The Maneki Neko has become a very common and familiar figure in the Asian community..."
