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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. 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.
Following time spent in Melbourne and Barcelona and 7 years in London, now based in Paris and Copenhagen, Malene has extensive experience working in the international museum, auction and art publishing world. Furthermore, she curates exhibitions in Denmark and abroad and gives talks on Japanese art and culture in academic as well as commercial contexts.
She has contributed to several publications such as Stillness (Gestalten), Journal of Japonisme, Kinfolk, Ark Journal, Apollo Magazine, Weekendavisen, Japanomania in the Nordic Countries (SMK) and Impressioni d'oriente: Art and collecting between Europe and Japan of the East (24 Ore Cultura). She has also written for Tokyo Weekender and the London Japan Society and is a regular contributor to Waraku Magazine. Her forthcoming book "Modern Japanese Printmakers" will be published with Prestel Publishing 21 October 2025. Available to preorder here !
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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