A large seated bronze figure of Budai, Ming Dynasty, dated to the fifth year of Jiajing (1526).
Seated on a lotus base, of which the lower part with inlays of coins (some Song Dynasty), with a rosary of prayer beads in his right hand, his left hand leaning on the knee, dressed in a robe of finely incised lotus-scrolls pattern, the jolly facial expression giving the whole statue a vivid air of life and happiness. The back with date and long inscriptions of names of donors. Traces of gilding and lacquer. Height 56 cm.
Wear, damages and repairs.
Provenance
The Collection of Anders Hellström (1877-1940)
An industry leader best known for his work as managing director and chief executive of the paper and cardboard manufacturer AB Papyrus between the years 1912-1940.
In addition to his daily work, he spent a lot of his time on cultural work.
With his practical abilities associated Hellström vast cultural interests it came in handy with his skills in maintaining communication with representatives of science and art. In a number of artistic and scientific-acting compounds, he played a leading role,
in particularly the ancient Chinese art that was his main interest. The outstanding collection of Chinese bronzes he had acquired over the years, would in professional circles receive the highest appreciation. A few years after his death, part of his collection became donated to the museum of Far Eastern Antiquities in Stockholm.
More information
According to Chinese history, Budai was an eccentric Chan monk (Zen) who lived in China in the beginning of the 10th Century. His Buddhist name was Qieci (literally: "Promise this"), and he was considered a man of good and loving character.
Budai is traditionally depicted as an obese, bald man wearing a robe and holding prayer beads. He carries his few possessions in a cloth sack, being poor but content. He is often depicted entertaining or being followed by adoring children. His image graces many temples, restaurants, amulets, and businesses being a symbol for happiness, prosperity and wealth.
Budai is usually identified with or seen as an incarnation of Maitreya, the future Buddha, so much so that the Budai image is one of the main forms in which Maitreya is depicted in East Asia. Since he is almost always shown smiling or laughing, his popular nickname in Chinese is the Laughing Buddha.