The
character of the laughing Buddha, while initially derived from Maitreya, the Buddha
of the Future, underwent a transformation in China, where he became a merry figure
of good fortune and prosperity. In this incarnation he is seen as rotund and amicable,
accompanied by small children who play and sport with him, tickling the corners
of his mouth, his ears and his belly-button. Buddha endures their mischief, smiling
with pleasure at their antics and holding them to him tenderly.
One
of the best carved Happy Buddha in our collection. This piece is sculpted with
regard for the original quality ivory tusk. Carved with directness and free of
unnecessary ornamentation, buoyantly composed and well-balanced, with finely carved
necklaces, curvilinear draping robe, and most unusually, an open lotus on the
back, set on a disc of concentric arcs. The ivory is pristine, the carving impressive
and of generous size; sturdy, with a high polish accentuating the lightness of
mood.
