Large Laughing Buddha

The Budai, or laughing Buddha, is traditionally depicted as an obese, bald man wearing a robe and carrying prayer beads. He is shown as a poor man but a contented one, teaching us that you do not need to be rich to be happy!

According to Chinese history, Budai was an eccentric monk who lived in China during 907–923 CE. He was a native of Feng Hua, and his Buddhist name was Qieci (which translates as "promise this.") He was considered a man with a good and loving character.

The Budai figure appears throughout Chinese culture as a representation of contentment and abundance, it is said that rubbing his protruding belly will bring the bearer wealth, good luck and prosperity.