Vintage Chinese Carved Stone Hotei Laughing Buddha - AS IS. Depicts the jovial figure sitting on a raised seat, his features somewhat obscured by the richly variegated stone. 

Condition: Minor losses on left hand. 

Size: 4 1/2 s 5 x 3 in. 

The Hotei or Budai, also known as the Laughing Buddha, is a nickname given to the historical Chinese monk Qieci in the Later Liang Dynasty, who is often identified with and venerated as the future Buddha Maitreya in Chan Buddhism and Buddhist scripture. With the spread of Chan Buddhism, he also came to be venerated in Vietnam, Korea, and Japan, and is usually depicted in repose or seated with a broad smile or wide-open laughing mouth, signifying happiness, abundance, and contentment. The name “Budai” literally means “cloth sack,” and refers to the bag he is often depicted carrying as he wanders, indicating that enlightenment and peace comes not from acquiring material things and objects of permanence but rather through good food, company, and experiences. His jolly nature and eccentric lifestyle distinguish him from most Buddhist masters or figures, and he is traditionally depicted as having a huge stomach, which has led him to be referred to as the “Fat Buddha” in the Western world. 

Minor losses on left hand. 

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