Hotei couple; Japan, Taisho era, c. 1920.

Hotei couple; Japan, Taisho period, c. 1920.
Hand-painted Kutani porcelain.
One of them has a signature on the base.
Measurements: 18 x 10 x 10 cm (larger).
Pair of Hotei statues made in porcelain, also known as the Smiling Buddha or Happy Buddha. The prominent belly of Hotei symbolizes wealth, joy, good luck and satisfaction. Hotei is a legendary figure in Japanese folklore and Buddhism, and is depicted as a plump, bald man with a big smile.
Kutani porcelain is characterized by its vivid colors, which include green, blue, yellow, purple and red pigments. The name "Kutani" means "Nine Valleys" and dates back to 1655, when porcelain clay was discovered in the Kutani mines. The style often features decorative designs with sharp black outlines and depicts the beauty of nature, such as flowers and birds. The production of Kutani ware became very famous in the West after an exhibition in 1873, and has since been engaged in export.