"The most wasted of all days is one without laughter." - Nicolas Chamfort
The Laughing Buddha, his infectious mirth captured in brass, isn't just a sculpture; it's a reminder of life's simple joys. Known as the "Buddha of Happiness," this representation of Siddhartha Gautama embodies contentment and abundance. Handcrafted in India, this figure carries the spirit of laughter, a universal language. His joyful countenance and rotund belly are symbols of well-being and prosperity. As you gaze upon him, you're not just witnessing a sculpture; you're invited to embrace the laughter that fills life with richness and love.
The Laughing Buddha is an unusual form of the Buddha as there is no iconographical prescription available in the scriptures. However, the Laughing Buddha is very popular in Japan, especially among the children.
He is shown here seated in the posture of Maharajalila. His right hand, placed on the right knee, is holding a crystal rosary. He has flat face and nose. His eyes and mouth are open, and laughing loudly as revealed from his expression. He is wearing monastic garments. The scarf covers both the shoulders leaving the breast and abdomen bare. The lower garment covers the body upto the feet. There are five jolly children who playing with the body of the Buddha. The hair style on the top of the heads of the children reminds one the hairdressing style of the Samurai (a warrior class of Japan).
References.
1. Mainly based on the discussion with a senior researcher, working on Japanese Buddhist art.
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