This was given to me by a sculptor I know. Of all the Hotei statues I've seen, this one has the most beautiful form, including its size and color. The flowing wood grain, calculated to match the composition, is extremely beautiful. The curves of the earlobes, chest, belly, clothing wrinkles, and ribbons are very natural and beautiful. The expression, in particular, is captivating, with the eyebrows, eyes, nose, and mouth delicately crafted, making it a work of art created with great care. The hands and feet are also carefully finished, and they look as if they could start moving at any moment. It is very rare and valuable for a work to be made with the center of the annual rings aligned with the forehead, nose, cheeks, chin, earlobes, and navel. This wood carving has a matte finish. The natural color is stylish. Matte finishes are rare and blend easily with interiors. I thought it matched well with Bizen ware, so I took a picture together. The round shape is truly adorable. It has been home-cleaned and maintained with a wooden coating. I will sell it while it's still in good condition. ◆Size: 20 x 18 cm ◆Retail Price: 90,000 yen ◆Material Luxuriously uses a large Yakusugi log from Yakushima, which was registered as a World Heritage site in 1993. Yakusugi is famous as a mystical sacred tree where gods reside, and the wood that has survived for hundreds or thousands of years has very fine annual rings and a good fragrance. ◆Hotei is one of the Seven Lucky Gods who brings good fortune and wealth, and is characterized by his cheerful appearance and large bag. He is considered to be an incarnation of Maitreya Bodhisattva and is worshipped as a god of good luck, marital harmony, and fertility. Origin of Hotei It is said that the model was Qici, a Zen monk who actually lived in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China during the Tang Dynasty. He always carried a large bag and traveled throughout the country, and he eventually came to be called "Hotei" (Cloth Bag). Worship of Hotei He is worshipped as a god of good luck, marital harmony, and fertility. As a lucky charm for good fortune, wealth, and warding off evil, it is used as an interior decoration, in the entrance, or as a car ornament. Hotei Statues Hotei statues are made of resin or wood, and there are various types, such as those sitting on a Longgui (dragon turtle) or with a smiling expression. Placing it at the entrance also has the effect of preventing disasters from entering. If you want to attract more wealth and good fortune, it is best to place it in a place related to money, such as a safe.