Kakemono Hotei with Two Roosters and Inscription

One of a kind — this work exists only once.

Period:
Meiji (1868–1912)
Dimensions (height x width):
186 x 53 cm
Item number:
5423

This piece has been sold.

Sold – no longer available

This piece was a handmade one-of-a-kind work. It cannot be reordered and will never exist in this form again. The page stays online as part of our archive.

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Details about the sold piece

  • JikusakiWood
  • Material HonshiSilk
  • MotifBuddhism and Zen, Lucky Gods, Mythology
  • TechniqueHand-Painted
  • Wooden BoxYes

Description

With a round belly, a broad smile, and his characteristic sack slung over his shoulder, Hotei appears, one of the Seven Lucky Gods and a symbol of contentment, abundance, and generosity. At his feet, two roosters peck at the ground, while a calligraphic inscription above the scene tells of his legend, according to which he bestows his bundle full of luck upon the whole earth.

The figure is painted in warm, earthy tones on silk, with soft contours that emphasize Hotei's good-natured character and lend his face an almost mischievous expression. The inscription and seal in the upper left add further depth to the work; it dates from the Meiji period and is thus among the older pieces of its kind.

The kakemono is delivered in a wooden box (tomobako) signed by the artist, mounted with wooden rollers. A cheerful, auspicious motif, ideally suited for the living space or as a special gift, bringing good spirits into any room.

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