Accession Number2006/2.19
TitleHotei
Artist(s)Old Man KôgetsuObject Creation Datecirca 1620-1643Medium & Supportink on silkDimensions 40 3/16 in x 17 ½ in (102.08 cm x 44.45 cm);40 3/16 in x 15 ⅜ in (102.08 cm x 39.05 cm);11 7/16 in x 14 ⅜ in (29.05 cm x 36.51 cm);x 17 ½ in x 44.45 cm
Credit LineGift of Ellen and Richard LaingSubject matterHotei, in Japanese mythology, one of the Shichi-fuku-jin (“Seven Gods of Luck”). This popular figure is depicted frequently in contemporary crafts as a cheerful, contented Buddhist monk with a large exposed belly, often accompanied by children. Tradition relates him to a Chinese monk called Pu-tai, who because of his benevolent nature came to be regarded as an incarnation of the bodhisattva (the future Buddha) Maitreya (Miroku in Japanese) but whose large protruding stomach led to his being caricatured as the “Laughing Buddha.”
https://www.britannica.com/topic/Hotei
Physical DescriptionHotei is dressed in a kimono with his chest and large belly are exposed and is sitting on a large sack. To the left of him are a couple lines of calligraphy.
Primary Object Classification Painting Primary Object Typehanging scrollCollection AreaAsianRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
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