Tsukumogami

By weird coincidence, I just stumbled upon a Japanese myth/legend/folklore about demons called "Tsukumogami." It is said that when inanimate objects reach their 100th birthday, they are granted life and become aware, sentient beings. According to an article on Wikipedia (where the source is, unfortunately, not cited): "Tsukumogami vary radically in appearance, depending on the type of item they originated from as well as the condition that item was in. Some, such as tsukumogami originating from paper lanterns or broken sandals, can have tears which become eyes and sharp teeth, thus giving a horrifying visage. Others, such as worn prayer beads or teacups, may merely manifest faces and appendages, giving a warm and friendly appearance." So it sounds like they anthropomorphisize upon reaching their 100th birthday. I find that pretty cool! Its a concept I'd love to work with at some point.