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The name Tiger Tanuki reflects the spirit of Japan and the foundation of this company. The tiger (Jap. tora), although not native to Japan, plays a significant role in Japanese art, signifying the virtue of courage as well as harmony of the opposites. Being introduced to Japan through Buddhism, the tiger is in some instances seen as the emblem of the West and in this context points to the cultural exchange between East and West. The tanuki, one the other han d, is found in Japanese mythology and with its supernatural powers has a more humorous and gentle side to it (although it often acts mischievously). A racoon-like dog with a long fuzzy tail, the tanuki is characterised by its large scrotum with which it can drape itself or use as an umbrella on rainy days, among other things. The tanuki represents our informal and creative approach to the art.
Tiger Tanuki was founded in 2014 by Danish art historian Malene Wagner who specialises in Japanese art and the cultural exchange between Japan and the West. Based in Paris and Copenhagen, the aim is to cultivate a deeper knowledge and interest in Japanese art and aesthetics and to inspire Japanese art enthusiasts and collectors across generations and cultures.
Malene has extensive experience working in the international museum, auction and art publishing world. Her forthcoming book 'Modern Japanese Printmakers' will be published with Prestel October 2025.
She has contributed to several publications such as Ark Journal, Kinfolk, Apollo Magazine, Weekendavisen, Japanomania in the Nordic Countries, Journal of Japonisme and Impressions of the East. She also writes for Waraku Magazine, Tokyo Weekender and the British Japan Society.
Furthermore, she curates exhibitions in Denmark and abroad and gives talks on Japanese art and culture in both academic as well as commercial contexts.
In 2017, Malene was invited to meet then Crown Prince Naruhito at the Japanese Embassy in Denmark as an acknowledgement of her work in promoting Japanese art in Denmark.
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