China, South Fujian Province, late 19th to early 20th century CE. A well-carved Happy Buddha (Ho Tai in Chinese) statue intended to bring good fortune to its owner, adorned with a coppery red lacquer that has developed an attractive craquelure over time. The comfortably seated, rather rotund Buddha presents a jovial countenance with his generous smile, and carries a lucky money bag in his right hand and a piece of succulent fruit in his left symbolizing prosperity. He wears billowing robe; however, his torso is not covered revealing a portly belly, perfect to rub for good luck. In actuality, Ho Tai is not the historical Buddha; instead he represents a revered Chinese Monk who was famous for his Buddhist sermons and his bag of gifts/money which he gave to children to reward them for learning about Dharma. As opposed to the Historical Buddha who is typically shown with an elegant body, a curly coiffure, robes that reveal only one shoulder, and a calm expression, Ho Tai (Happy Buddha) is usually depicted with a plump body, a bald head, a robe that exposes his entire chest, holding a large bag, and brandishing a great smile. A fabulous example with a wax export stamp on its head. Size: 15.5" L x 17" W x 18.25" H (39.4 cm x 43.2 cm x 46.4 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Private Boulder, CO collection acquired at Indochine Gallery

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Surface wear with losses to toes, fruit, bag, ears, and other areas as shown. Lacquer has developed a nice craquelure. Wax seal on top of head is somewhat difficult to decipher.