| HO TAI or LAUGHING BUDDHA comes right out of Chinese folk lore. They say if you rub his belly, all your dreams come true.
In China, HoTai is the God of Good Fortune and Guardian of Children. His overflowing round shape indicates abundance of inner wealth and a joy filled soul. He was an actual person, Ho-Tei-Shi, a Zen monk who did in fact have little regard for the transient qualities of dress or living conditions, but was renowned for his ability to delight the people with his eloquent reciting of Buddhist texts. LiAsia Gallery was fortunate enough to buy a nice collection of these hard-to-find sculptures. |
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Ming Dynasty Huang Huali Ho Tai
Dating from the 16th Century. This rare statue has great presence and a mischevious smile. Carved from one piece of prized huang huali wood, this piece has a wonderful patina. The open hole in the back once contained a calligraphy scroll and a blessing for the owner of the statue.
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A 19th Century Camphorwood Ho Tai.
With traces of original red lacquer and gilt. Fine overall carving with special emphasis given to the fingers and the face. Elongated earlobes flow down onto his robe.
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An Early 20th Century Dry Lacquer Ho Tai.
A large sized laughing Buddha with the remnants of gold lacquer. This one is highlighted by long flowing robes and lifelike detail.
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A 19th Century Country Ho Tai.
Carved from camphorwood in a rustic style, this country Ho Tai wears a wide grin and has mischevious eyes.
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An 18th Century Ho Tai.
An 18th century camphor Ho Tai, retaining only faint traces of the original thick gold lacquer. He has an air of kingly dignity.
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