A Japanese Boxwood Netsuke Depicting Hotei 布袋

Boxwood netsuke depicting Hotei 布袋, one of the Seven Gods of Good Luck, seated with his fan in his hands and a child embracing him.

Hotei's face is plump, smiling, and conveys a sense of peace and tranquility. He is commonly referred to as the protector of children.

Behind Hotei, there is a child, depicted with great sweetness, who embraces him.

The carving lines are sharp and precise, creating an effect of three-dimensionality and depth. The boxwood used as a material has been selected for its hardness and resistance, but also for its beauty and its veins which create an interesting chromatic effect.

Origin: Japan

Period: Edo 19th century

Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 3.2cm.

State of conservation: Very good