Our featured work of art for the month of September is this characterful Bronze Okimono of the beloved figure of Japanese folklore, Hotei.
As always with our Blogs and Articles, you can click on any of the images to take a closer look.
Cast in Bronze and with fine Silver inlay decoration and multi-metal patination, this piece is a wonderful example of Meiji-era craftsmanship and imagination.
One of the Seven Lucky Gods (or Gods of Fortune), his name translates as “the cloth sack” because he is always depicted with a large patched, linen sack.
In China, (where Hotei has his origins), he is known as Budai and his legend was inspired by a 10th Century Buddhist Monk who was said to be an incarnation of Maitreya, the future Buddha.
Hotei is one of the most instantly recognisable figures from Japanese legend and he is identified primarily by his large belly, bald head and cheerful demeanour.
He is a symbol of happiness, prosperity, contentment and generosity. In fact, it is believed that the large cloth sack, (from which he got his name) contains gifts and food for needy children.
A standing Hotei, depicted in another Bronze from our collection of Meiji-era Okimono
It’s no surprise that Hotei is hugely popular with young children and is often depicted being followed around by a group of giddy young boys.
In this depiction of Hotei, he is holding a peach in his right hand. The significance here is the peach’s symbolism (rooted in Chinese Taoist mythology) of a long and healthy life. Mystical Peaches had the power to deliver immortality.
It was also believed that the bark from a peach tree would ward off evil spirits. Hotei is often depicted holding a peach, or wearing robes adorned with peach decoration to further enhance his message of happiness and contentment.
Hotei is also often seen holding a fan. For centuries, the fan has been a symbol of authority and wish-granting, (much like a wand.) The fan was also seen as a tool to take away obstacles symbolising the removal of negativity and unwanted challenges.
All of this, along with the fans primary purpose to provide cool air contribute to its significance as a conductor for happiness.
Another fine Okimono of Hotei from our collection of Japanese Meiji-era metalwork
This particular Bronze is further elevated by the fine, decorative inlay work on his robes.
An intricate honey-comb design is further complemented by an abstract, sprawling foliate design in Gold, Silver and Shibuichi.
Hotei is often referred to in the West as the Laughing Buddha because he is always depicted with that big smile. If you visit a garden centre anywhere in the United Kingdom, you will likely come across a range of miniature Hotei’s for sale. In the current global climate, we think Hotei is a much needed beacon of hope, benevolence, calm and peace.
Click on the video below to see a slide-show of additional photographs of this beautiful piece:
We hope you enjoyed this article. If you did, you can find over 100 Short-read blogs and posts inspired by our collection of Chinese and Japanese Fine Art and Antiques by Clicking Here.