vintage Japan hand painted ceramic Santa, china figurine or candle hugger

I love this vintage Santa, waving to all his many fans! I'm not sure if he's a candle hugger or just a figurine?
He's about 2 1/2" tall overall, marked Japan on the bottom. Condition is very good, no chips, cracks or repairs - paint looks great.
- sku: #fr1214200
- status: sold out
- featured in these collections: