This bronze statue depicts Hotei, one of the Seven Gods of Fortune, pointing to the heavens (or the moon). The artist is Noboru 昇. There is carving on the lower back. The statue is thought to have been created approximately 50-100 years ago, around the early Showa period. The image and anecdote of Hotei pointing to the heavens (or the moon) symbolizes the Zen teaching of "pointing to the moon." This has the following meaning: The finger represents the scriptures, the moon represents enlightenment: The finger is a means (scriptures or teachings) to point to the moon, and the moon is the true object to be looked at (the state of enlightenment). Don't be caught up in the means: People often tend to focus only on the "finger" pointing to the moon (the letters of the scriptures or formal training), but this statue teaches that what is truly important is to look at the "moon" (the essence of enlightenment) that the finger is pointing to. Furyumonji: This expresses the fundamental position of Zen that the teachings of Zen cannot be fully expressed in letters or words, and can only be mastered through rigorous training such as zazen. Hotei, one of the Seven Lucky Gods revered in Japan for bringing blessings and wealth, was a Zen monk who lived in present-day Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, during the Tang Dynasty. Originally a deity from China, he is believed to bring fortune and happiness. He is depicted carrying a large sack, which is thought to be filled with luck and wealth. Additionally, Hotei symbolizes poverty and teaches that true happiness is found by living lightly without unnecessary possessions. Hotei, also known as Budai, was a Zen monk who lived during the late Tang Dynasty and into the Five Dynasties period. He is sometimes regarded as an incarnation of Maitreya Bodhisattva. Always smiling and approachable, he is said to have carried a large sack filled with treasures, which he bestowed upon devout believers. Legend has it that Hotei wandered through the streets with his large sack, soliciting alms and collecting food and other donations from people, which he stored in his sack as he walked. It is said that his appearance and name originated from his practice of receiving alms in this manner. Hotei is revered in Japan for bringing blessings and wealth. He is believed to bring luck, marital harmony, fertility, and prosperity. Additionally, he is associated with increased financial fortune, career advancement, good relationships, and thriving businesses. Protection and Guidance: The staff symbolizes the role of Hotei in protecting and guiding believers. It is seen as a support during challenging times in the journey of life, offering safety and guidance. Prosperity in Business: As Hotei is revered as a deity of business prosperity, the staff may be associated with commercial success and flourishing enterprises. Symbol of Good Fortune: The staff is often considered a symbol of good fortune, believed to bring luck and contribute to a happy and fulfilling life. Safe Travels: Given Hotei's role as a guardian deity of travel, the staff can also represent a wish for safety and good fortune during journeys. "Shichifukujin 七福神（The Seven Lucky Gods）" refer to the seven deities: Ebisu恵比寿, Daikokuten大黒天, Bishamonten毘沙門天, Benzaiten弁財天, Hotei布袋, Fukurokuju福禄寿, and Jurojin寿老人. These deities symbolize sacred powers such as luck, prosperity, and longevity in the traditional beliefs of Japan. Height 31.4 cm Width 18.7 cm Depth 12.7 cm Weight 4600 g Condition: The condition is relatively good. There are scratches, stains, scuffs, and discoloration, but no major damage. It has been stored at home. There are also many photos, so please take a look. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 020922590327