Miniature statue Budai

Miniature sculpture Budai, single piece

Qing Dynasty, China, 19th century.

Budai (Chinese: Bùdài, Korean: Podae and Japanese: Hotei) is a deity in Chinese mythology. in Buda ( Buddhist name Ch'i-t'zu) is believed to have been an eccentric Chinese Zen monk who lived during the later Liang Dynasty (907 CE - 923 CE) in the Kingdom of Wuyue in China.

The miniature sculpture carved from bone measures approximately 40mm x 38mm x 35mm (without the wooden stand)

Symbol meaning

Ch'i-t'zu's cheerful nature, humorous personality and peculiar way of life clearly distinguish him from other Buddhist masters and deities. Budai carries a sack on his back (which is never empty) and is filled with valuable gifts such as rice (symbolizes wealth) or sweets for children (he is often depicted surrounded by five children). Budai represents complete happiness, generosity. gentleness and prosperity. He is the patron deity of children, the poor and the weak. According to one theory, Budai was originally a fertility god and his round belly represented a rich harvest and abundance. Budai is often seen holding a string of prayer beads (mālā) in his left hand. Sometimes he is depicted holding a fan (an oopgi that grants all wishes made to it). Traditionally, Budai sits on his ornate, double lotus throne or on a rich coin embankment. A heartily laughing Buddha represents contentment, happiness and wealth. According to popular belief, rubbing a budai's bare belly brings prosperity and good luck.

Note! The miniature sculpture is an antique and a one-off. The sculpture has small surface defects, dents, cracks and wear.