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Lot 111

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TWO SETS OF JAPANESE NETSUKE OF THE SEVEN BUDDHAS

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The origin of these seven lucky gods is supposed to have begun in the 15th century. It is believed that even if these deities are popular in Japan, only one is a native to Japan and Shinto tradition, who is Ebisu, god of the ocean, and holds a fish that symbolizes good luck. Ebisu represents fair trade and candor. Three others are from India, Daikokuten, Bishamonten, and Benzaiten, who are the god of earth and holds a magic mallet, the goddess of beauty and holds a musical instrument, and the god of wealth and holds a spear, respectively. They represent the virtues of fortune, amiability, and integrity. And the last three are from China, Hotei, Jurojin, and Fukurokuju. Hotei is god of contentment and holds a bag of food and treasure, Jurojin is the god of wisdom and has a knobby staff, and Fukurokuju is god of fertility and holds a staff and scroll. These three represent the virtues of magnanimity, longevity, and popularity. H: 2 in. (5cm)

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