Chinese Small Bronze Figure Of Budai With Auspicious Emblems, C. 1900

A well-cast Chinese bronze figure of Budai, dating to circa 1900, and conceived as an auspicious object for domestic display. He is shown barefoot and smiling, with a full rounded belly, raising a yuanbao ingot above his head and holding a ruyi sceptre in the other hand. Together these attributes express prosperity, blessing, and the fulfilment of wishes.

The figure is small but visually strong, with confident modelling and drapery cast in soft flowing folds. Its dark brown patina is pleasingly varied, enriched by lighter rubbing on the high points and natural green oxidation visible in the recesses and inside the hollow base. The underside remains open, typical of small decorative bronzes of this type, and bears a few indistinct scratched marks that do not appear to form a formal signature or inscription.

Budai was originally a semi-legendary wandering monk of China, later understood as an incarnation of Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future. This helps explain why his image came to embody not only happiness and abundance, but also benevolence and spiritual good fortune. The present figure combines that symbolism with a neat cabinet scale and good decorative presence.

Measurements

• Height: 11 cm (4.3″)

• Width: 6 cm (2.4″)

• Depth: 5 cm (2.0″)

• Weight: 293 g

Condition
Excellent condition. The figure displays confident modelling, good casting quality, and a well-finished surface.

Shipping & Packaging
Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Carefully packed using appropriate materials.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.
Questions are welcome.