Japanese Bizen Pottery Fukurokuju Statue. Very well done piece 6.5" tall x 4.5" wide, small chip on beard shown in first pic, no other cracks, chips, or
restorations.
FUKUROKUJU originates from an old Chinese tale about a mythical Chinese hermit
(Sung Period) who was famous because he performed miracles and was said to
embody the celestial powers of the south polar star. Fuku means happiness, Roku
means riches and Ju means longevity. He is the Chinese God of wisdom, happiness,
wealth and long life; Fukurokuju is 3 feet tall, has a big head half his height,
large eyes and a snowy, long white beard. He wears garments like those worn by
ancient Chinese scholars and likes to play chess. He sometimes also has cranes
and/or a tortoise near him. He is often associated with Jurojin since the two
are said to inhabit the same body. He is the God of Chess players, watchmakers
and athletes
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