• Large Japanese wooden Hotei god of contentment statue, laughing figure
  • Large Hotei ceramic figure side view showing laughing expression and belly
  • Detail of darkened patina from cooking fires on Edo period Hotei irori figure
  • Close-up of ceramic molded surface on late 18th/early 19th century Hotei figure
  • Laughing Buddha Hotei detail showing treasure sack symbolizing abundance
  • Reverse of large Hotei ceramic figure showing back detail and mounting
  • Three-quarter view of Edo period Japanese Hotei God of Happiness figure
  • Full view of large Japanese Hotei ceramic figure, 20.5 height x 17 width inches
  • Alternate angle of Edo period Japanese Hotei Laughing Buddha ceramic figure
  • Detail of Hotei's robe and seated posture on late 18th century ceramic figure
  • Close-up of Hotei face showing laughing expression and ceramic detailing
  • Base of large Edo period Japanese Hotei ceramic figure
  • Side view of large Hotei figure showing depth, 10-inch depth
  • Overall form of Edo period Japanese Hotei placed above farmhouse irori hearth
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Large Hotei

Large Hotei

Exceptional ceramic molded figure of Hotei, the God of Happiness and Plenty, often called the Laughing Buddha. Such figures were commonly placed above the irori (open hearth) in Japanese farmhouses, where they acquired a darkened patina from cooking fires. Positioned above the fire, Hotei was believed to ensure that the household cauldron remained full.

c. Late 18th–early 19th century (Edo period), Japan

20 ½" height x 17" width x 10" depth
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Large Hotei