Antique
Japanese Okimono Happy
Buddha
Hotei with Boy Signed:
Soshu. Mid 19th century
H
6 in.(15cm.), W 2.5 in.(6.5cm.), D 2 in.(5cm.)
Condition: Crack lines, loss, restoration
A fine
carving in creamy tusk ivory in tones of honeyed cream, depicting Hotei, the happy
Buddha, seen with his attributes of fan, staff, and sack, with a little boy holding
his hand. Hotei is frequently seen with children, as it is his habit to wander
the countryside, dispensing gifts and riches and caring for children. This okimono
is graced with a high degree of artistry and was created by a master carver, as
can be seen in the excellent conception and the infallible finishing of every
detail. The face of Hotei is a lively portrait with an affable smile behind which
the teeth are individually carved; a curled fringe of hair surrounds his bald
pate, features are subtly portrayed with laughing eyes and barely visible beard
stubble. Enormous earlobes of royalty stand out on his shoulders, and even the
scattered hairs of his chest are delineated. The back of his robe has been roughened
to a matte texture over which polished designs stand out. The boy is also superbly
defined in a cloud-bedecked robe and carrying a minutely woven basket. Tied on
Hotei’s upraised staff is his stitched sack and fan, which is a marvel of intricate
patterning. In all a truly fine okimono of exceptional quality. --RW |
Private Collection |