Hotei's Treasure Bag

Artist

Japanese (Japanese)

Date

Late 19th century

Medium

Bronze

Dimensions

Work : 24 3/4 x 22 x 22 in. (62.87 x 55.88 x 55.88 cm)

Credit Line

Gift of David Kamansky and Gerald Wheaton

Object Number

2014.23.248

Label

Hotei is one of the seven gods of good fortune in traditional Japanese popular culture. He is often portrayed as a fat, cheerful Buddhist monk carrying a large cloth bag from which he dispenses gifts to those in need. This sculpture of Hotei’s treasure bag was probably made for display in a garden or other public place where people could touch it or place offerings in it to receive Hotei’s blessing.