Southeast Asia, Burma (modern day Myanmar), late 19th century CE. A well-carved wooden Happy Buddha statue intended to bring good fortune to its owner. The cheerfully prancing rather rotund Buddha presents a jovial countenance with his generous smile and laughing eyes. He carries a lucky money bag in his right hand and a piece of succulent fruit in his left symbolizing prosperity and wears a billowing robe and beaded pectoral; however, his torso is not covered revealing a portly belly, perfect to rub for good luck. Size: 4.75" W x 7.75" H (12.1 cm x 19.7 cm)

In actuality, the Happy Buddha (Ho Tai in Chinese) is not the historical Buddha; instead he represents a revered Chinese Monk who was famous for his Buddhist sermons and his bag of gifts/money which he gave to children to reward them for learning about Dharma. As opposed to the Historical Buddha who is typically shown with an elegant body, a curly coiffure, robes that reveal only one shoulder, and a calm expression, Ho Tai (Happy Buddha) is usually depicted with a plump body, a bald head, a robe that exposes his entire chest, holding a large bag, and brandishing a great smile.

Provenance: Ex-Private Boulder, CO collection acquired at Indochine Gallery

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