Note: The Gyroids in Animal Crossing are based on Japanese haniwa. Haniwa originated as cylindric border markers for the mound-shaped tombs of deceased elite, but eventually evolved into figural sculptures. They were most likely intended to serve the dead, similar to Ancient Egyptian shabti.

Background Art: Haniwa Mar 15, 1960, New York Seiroku Noma  (1902-1966).