Netsuke, Wood. Japan, 19th Century
Well rounded, amusing depiction.The God of luck Hotei (in Chinese Budai) is one of the seven Japanese Shichi Fukujin (gods of luck). Typically big-bellied he pulls on his eyes and cheeks making an amusing grimace. Karako, the chinese boy, seems less amused, almost ashamed covering one of his eyes and looking away. Signature underneath on the leg of Hotei: GETSU-SAN (GESSAN). The opening of the bag makes up the Himotoshi. Minor wear.
HEIGHT 4 CM
From the collection of Henk C. Hoogsteden