Japanese Wooden Temple Statue of Hotei with Child, c. 1920

A large Japanese statue of Hotei, the laughing god of good fortune from the Shichifukujin tradition, with a small child figure standing sheltered beside him.

Dimensions: height 68 cm, width 40 cm, depth 30 cm. Weight: 31 kg.

The statue is carved from solid wood and has a powerful, warm presence. Hotei is depicted with his rounded belly, broad smile, heavy earlobes and open robe. His right hand is raised, while on his left side a smaller figure shelters beneath the folds of his garment. This detail gives the piece a particularly charming and protective character.

The wood grain runs beautifully throughout the entire statue and is enhanced by the deep, warm brown tones and natural patina. The drying cracks, old discolorations and subtle wear are consistent with the age of the solid wood and give the piece additional depth and presence. The carving is expressive and decorative, with fine attention to the face, hands, feet, robe folds and small accompanying figure.

The statue originally had a religious or symbolic function, most likely as a temple figure, but today it also works exceptionally well as a sculptural Japanese interior object.

Because of its size, weight and expressive appearance, this is a particularly strong piece for a sober, minimalist or Japanese-inspired interior. Beautiful when placed on its own, in an entrance hall, alcove, calm retail space, gallery interior or as a central object in a composition with ceramics, wood and natural materials.

In beautiful antique condition, with drying cracks, age-related traces, light wear, small irregularities and patina consistent with its age and solid wooden construction. An impressive, warm and characterful Japanese statue with a strong symbolic presence.