Width: 3cms
Height: 4cms
Date: Circa 1880
£POA - What does POA mean?
Product Code: KPNE28
Simply put, POA stands for “Price on Application”.
With some of our pieces, we prefer not to openly publish our asking price. We absolutely welcome visitors to the website to contact us to enquire about the cost of such pieces.
We just prefer to have a conversation to allow us to explain the pricing as well as to talk in more detail about the piece in question.
It doesn’t necessarily mean that it is a super expensive piece but it may just be that there is something unique or special that we would like to be able to tell you about in more detail.
Contact us to find out more.
From our collection of Japanese, late Nineteenth Century Netsuke, this charming box wood carved depiction of Hotei. He holds a peach aloft and is accompanied by a small child.
The subjects robes are decorated with red, black and gold paint. Condition is as shown in the photographs with some flaking and loss to the decoration.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for additional images or to view the piece in person.
Hotei (Budai)
Hotei (Budai in Chinese) originates from China, he is traditionally depicted as a fat happy Buddhist monk also known as the Laughing Buddha. He is a semi-historical Chinese monk who was believed to have lived in the 10th century, his jolly, humorous demeanour sets him apart from the more serene Buddhist figures. Popular with local people would wonder around China predicting fortunes and weather, he would often sleep outside, unharmed by harsh weather thanks to his magical powers. He is often depicted with a smile on his face, patting his large stomach, a representation of contentment and abundance, he is also the god of fortune and popularity. Due to his nomadic lifestyle Hotei carries around a large cloth sack which is where his name comes from, there are many speculations as to what is in the sack, but it is generally thought to contain candles and toys for children.
Peach
Peaches are a common symbol in Japanese art representing immortality or the wish for a healthy life. They are also associated with luck, and the elimination of evil.
Celestial Children
In Japan it is believed that if a child passes away before their parents they are looked after by the seven lucky gods, until it is time for the parents to pass on and collect them. This is a very sweet belief and the children are always depicted as having a marvellous time, Hotei in particular is the God of Children and they are often seen following him or playing together.
We completely understand that purchasing art and antiques online is a relatively new concept to many people, so our team will be very happy to provide additional information and support along the way.
We are members of BADA, LAPADA and CINOA, working closely with these associations and we are very proud of our reputation as one of the most established, valued and trusted dealers of Japanese and Chinese Art and Antiques in the industry.
Our galleries in Islington are open Monday through to Saturday (from 1030 to 1630) by appointment only. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
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