Antique sculpture "Hotei". Made from bronze. The stand is made of wood. Japan, 19th century.

In Japanese mythology, Hotei is one of the "seven gods of happiness", the god of communication, fun and prosperity. One of the most popular netsuke characters. Hotei is often referred to as the "Buddha", mistaking images of him for those of Shakyamuni Buddha.

According to legend, the image of Hotei was taken from a real character, a monk named Chi-Tzu, who lived in China in the 10th century. He traveled with a large canvas bag and a rosary, and was nicknamed Budei (in Japanese, Hotei). Where he appeared, good luck, health and prosperity came to people. If someone asked what was in the bag, he answered: "I have the whole world there."