Seated Gilded Laughing Buddha (Budai) Figurine

This item is a small, seated figurine representing the Laughing Buddha, also known as Budai or Hotei in East Asian folklore. The figure is depicted in a traditional joyful sitting pose with an exposed large belly, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. He is holding a cloth sack or prayer beads in his right hand, which is resting on his knee. The figurine is finished in a bright gold gilding or gold-toned paint, characteristic of decorative spiritual icons meant to bring good luck. Made of a cast material, likely resin or a heavy base metal, it features smooth contours and stylized facial features including squinted eyes and a wide grin. The surface shows minor wear and light surface abrasions, particularly on the rounded portions of the head and belly, suggesting it may have been handled for luck. There are no immediately visible maker's marks or signatures on the upper surface. The piece appears to be a contemporary or mid-20th-century mass-produced decorative object rather than an antique hand-sculpted piece, though it retains good definition in the casting of the robes and physical features. The overall height appears to be roughly 2 to 4 inches, making it suitable for a home altar or desk ornament.