The image of the Laughing Buddha is based on a wandering Chinese monk, Budai (Hotei, in Japanese) who lived centuries ago and is believed to be Maitreya, or the Buddha to come. The statue's plump figure and benign countenance suggest contentment, magnanimity and plenitude.  The Buddha statue measures 4 inches high and 4 inches wide. Brightly colored finish enhance the friendly appeal of Laughing Buddha. Hand-finished, minor variations and imperfections add to the artistic appeal of each statue.