General Auction including Antiques & Colectables, Gold & Silver.
This lot comprises two figurines depicting Hotei, also known as the Laughing Buddha. The larger figure is hand-carved from pale green soapstone with natural mineral inclusions and veining. It is portrayed in a seated position with a jovial expression, a large abdomen, and elongated earlobes. The figure holds a string of prayer beads in the left hand and features a carved, serrated mandorla behind the head. The underside of the base is hollowed, displaying rough-hewn chisel marks from the carving process. The smaller figure is a seated representation of Hotei holding prayer beads, constructed from a smooth, opaque black material. No maker’s marks, signatures, or labels are visible on either item.
Condition report:
The soapstone figure shows surface scuffs, white scratch marks, and minor abrasions throughout the body (photo 1). Small nibbles are present on the sharp edges of the mandorla (photo 1). The underside displays rough chisel marks consistent with the carving process (photo 2). The black figure is in good overall condition with some surface dust trapped in the recessed areas (photo 1). Both items appear structurally sound with no visible repairs.
Share this lot:
