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Hand-Casted Bronze Figure of Budai, China, Early 20th Century

$750
£566.67
€649.71
CA$1,046.71
A$1,138.90
CHF 603.03
MX$13,701.76
NOK 7,657.19
SEK 7,005.79
DKK 4,854.23

About the Item

Hand-Casted Bronze Figure of Budai, China, Early 20th Century This early 20th-century hand-cast bronze figure of Budai, also known as the Laughing Buddha, embodies serenity, abundance, and timeless craftsmanship. Weighing approximately two kilograms, the sculpture has a satisfying solidity and a richly textured surface that reflects both its age and artisanal character. Budai, revered in Buddhist culture as a symbol of joy and generosity, is portrayed here with his signature broad smile and relaxed composure. His rounded belly—long associated with good fortune and prosperity—and the ever-present cloth sack he carries make him a beloved icon of happiness and fulfillment. In Chinese tradition, this sack is said to hold the world’s sorrows, which Budai collects and transforms into blessings, a powerful metaphor for compassion and renewal. The statue’s finely rendered features capture Budai’s genial expression, his closed eyes radiating calm contentment. His robe, cast with exceptional attention to detail, drapes naturally around his seated form, revealing the skill of the artisan who brought this joyful figure to life through the piece-mould technique. Measuring 15 centimeters in height and 14 centimeters in width, the sculpture’s patina displays deep, warm tones, with traces of its original gilt finish still visible, particularly on the back. This subtle contrast between surfaces speaks to the passage of time and the object’s long life as a cherished figure of devotion. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this bronze Budai carries profound spiritual and cultural resonance. Known in China as Budai Heshang—the “Cloth Sack Monk”—and in Japan as Hotei, he was inspired by the 10th-century Chinese monk Qici, whose kindness and cheerfulness earned him veneration as an incarnation of Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future. In art and legend alike, Budai became a symbol of the attainable joy found in generosity, humor, and the acceptance of life’s simple pleasures. This sculpture beautifully conveys those enduring qualities. The Laughing Buddha’s presence brings not only visual harmony but also a sense of emotional and spiritual balance to any interior. Whether placed in a home, office, or contemplative space, it invites reflection on happiness, abundance, and the benevolent spirit that transcends time and culture.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 5.91 in (15 cm)Width: 5.71 in (14.5 cm)Depth: 3.94 in (10 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Bronze,Cast,Hand-Crafted
  • Place of Origin:
    China
  • Period:
    Early 20th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Unknown
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Wear is consistent with age and use; the casting shows minor irregularities, and a rich, heavy patina has developed over time, enhancing the sculpture’s character and antique appeal.
  • Seller Location:
    Grythyttan, SE
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU8757246963872

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