Antique Porcelain Famille Rose Laughing Buddha, China (17038LMK) $850

Description

Known as Budai in China and Hotei in Japan, Budai is one of the most famous Mahayana deities, called Mi Lo Fo, the Loving or Friendly One. Known as the Laughing, Happy, or Fat Buddha in the West, he is a symbol of contentment, happiness, good luck, and plenitude. With a loving character and benevolent nature, he is considered by many to be an incarnation of Maitreya the Buddha of the Future. His name Budai meaning cloth bag was from the Tang Dynasty monk who carried a large hemp bag symbolizing abundance and contentment. An eccentric, jolly and happy monk with no home or temple, he wandered widely to beg for food, forecasted people’s fortunes, and gave aid to those he encountered. He attracted people with his kindness and entertained children who were naturally drawn to him. His ubiquitous appearance at restaurants symbolizes the joy the eating experience there will produce. According to one source, the best Budai  porcelain figures were from the Early Chinese Republic period, with characteristics displayed by this image: decorated in famille rose enamel, individualized and expressive facial features, heavy walls, no gold highlights, a large hole in the base and an impressed seal underneath. Ceramics from this period are now highly collectible.