Southeast Asia, Indonesia, east Java, Majapahit Empire, ca. 1293 to 1527 CE. A wonderful pottery sculpture of a portly male figure - likely a deity - shown seated in lotus position as he holds a fish in his left hand and a spherical object, perhaps a fruit, in his right - both serving as symbols of abundance. The rotund figure is adorned with bangles, anklets, armbands, and collar necklaces as his bulging, bare belly hangs over his feet. Capped by an intricately incised coiffure, he gazes forward from a tranquil visage, displaying arched brows, slender eyes, a bulbous nose, and full lips held closed, all flanked by a pair of naturalistic ears. Majapahit artwork focused chiefly on gods, goddesses, and royalty, and this figure may represent a type of laughing god or laughing Buddha known as Budai in China or Ebisu in Japan. Size: 3" W x 4.3" H (7.6 cm x 10.9 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#137764

Expected nicks, abrasions, and pitting throughout, commensurate with age. Some indentations to base. Otherwise, intact and excellent with light earthen deposits and collection label on verso.