Vintage sculpture "Khotei with children". Ceramics, glaze. China, 20th century

Hotei, the “canvas bag,” is one of the seven deities who bestows fun, prosperity and joy, distributes destinies and helps in the realization of wishes. The image of Hotei was taken from the prototype of a real living monk who lived in China at the end of the 10th century, who walked around the villages with a rosary and a canvas bag. Where his foot stepped, goodness, luck and health with prosperity were scattered. According to legend, the whole world was in the bag. Hotei is often surrounded by children, and this is no wonder, because he gives gifts and brings joy.