Japanese Netsuke, Budai face, out of natural Fruit Seed

Japanese Netsuke, Budai face, out of natural Fruit Seed, round with two(2) large holes for rope. From the 19th century.

Size: 4 cm L x 3 cm W x 4 cm H

The name "Budai" literally means "cloth sack", and refers to the bag he is often depicted carrying as he wanders. His jolly nature and eccentric lifestyle distinguish him from most Buddhist masters or figures. He is almost always shown smiling or laughing, hence his nickname in Chinese, the "Laughing Buddha". Budai is traditionally depicted as having a huge stomach (possibly a symbol of abundance or forgiveness) and many stories surrounding Budai involve his love of food and drink. Because of this, he is also referred to as the "Fat Buddha", especially in the Western world, where he is often mistaken for The Buddha.