A charming old Japanese bamboo craft depicting Hotei (布袋), one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan (Shichifukujin 七福神), traditionally associated with happiness, abundance, generosity, and contentment.
This distinctive piece features Hotei's joyful, smiling face, beautifully carved with rounded cheeks, gently closed eyes, a broad nose, and a peaceful expression. The exaggerated facial features capture the warmth and cheerful spirit traditionally associated with this beloved figure in Japanese folk art.
The sculpture displays a rich, dark brown patina with warm amber tones emerging through the worn surface, highlighting the intricate carving and giving the piece a rustic, timeworn character. The reverse features an unusual series of hollowed horizontal sections, revealing the distinctive craftsmanship behind its construction.
Hotei, often referred to as the Laughing Buddha, is one of Japan's Seven Lucky Gods. Inspired by the legendary Chinese Buddhist monk Budai, he is traditionally depicted as a cheerful, round-faced figure with a generous smile.
In Japanese culture, Hotei represents happiness, good fortune, generosity, and satisfaction with life's simple pleasures. His smiling image has long been appreciated as an auspicious decoration, believed to invite joy and positive energy into the home.
Size: 12 x 8 x 13cm
