Hotei Figure

Object NameHotei Figure

Manufacturer Sko Cho (Japanese)

DateEarly 20th century

OriginJapan

MediumIvory

Dimensions2 x 1 9/16 x 1 3/16 in. (5.1 x 4 x 3 cm)

ClassificationsDecorative Arts, Natural Substances

Credit LineGift of the Robert A. Wright Estate. In the permanent collection, Brunnier Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberUM85.231

Status

Not on view

Collections

Decorative Arts

CultureJapanese

Label TextGod of happiness, laughter and contentment, Hotei is also known as the Happy or Laughing Buddha. Hotei is one of Japan's seven lucky gods, or Shichi Fukujin, and derives from the Liang Dynasty in China, 502-557 AD. Hotei is theorized to have begun as an actual Buddhist monk in China over 1,000 years ago. He is commonly depicted carrying a cloth bag that never empties and from which he shares his good fortune with others. The fan that he is often seen with is a Chinese uchwia and serves as a symbol of wish granting. His pot belly is symbolic of happiness, luck and generosity.

MarkingsSKO CHO

PeriodEdo

Locations