Chinese Hongmu Reclining Budai / Hotei with Three-Legged Lucky Frog – 16"

Chinese Hongmu Reclining Budai / Hotei with Three-Legged Lucky Frog – 16" Wide

A large and impressively heavy Chinese hardwood carving of Budai (布袋)—the laughing, pot-bellied monk who embodies joy and abundance—shown reclining in relaxed delight while holding a mythical three-legged frog, a powerful feng shui symbol of wealth and good fortune. Finely detailed carving captures the folds of his flowing robes, the plump jovial features of his face, and a sash of peaches and coins representing long life and prosperity.

Carved from very dense hongmu (紅木) rosewood, the figure displays a deep, lustrous reddish-brown patina and rests on a separately carved naturalistic base pierced with cloud-like openings.

In Japan, Budai is revered as Hotei (布袋), one of the beloved Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin), celebrated as the deity of happiness, contentment, and good health—underscoring the figure’s universal appeal across East Asia.

Dimensions: 16" W × 8" D × 7.5" H (including base)
Condition: Excellent antique condition with a rich natural polish and only minor surface wear consistent with age.

A striking centerpiece that unites Chinese and Japanese traditions of prosperity and joy, this sculpture offers both spiritual symbolism and superb hardwood craftsmanship.