Budai "Laughing Buddha" Chinese in Green Jade, Late 19th / Early 20th Century

Budai “Laughing Buddha” Chinese in Green Jade, Late 19th / Early 20th Century

Symbol of generosity, abundance and happiness, what the West calls the laughing Buddha is not an ascetic! Unlike Buddha who adopted a life of frugality as evidenced by his physiognomy, Budai is a monk who never refused a good meal or a small drink! Legend has it that his eccentric life and his humor brought joy to those around him. His ears with stretched lobes are symbols of wisdom and he is venerated as the future Buddha Maitreya in Chan Buddhism and Buddhist scriptures.

Carved in green jade, this small sculpture in very good condition is a true deference to this much-loved character.