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 gold finish Happy Buddha statue is made of resin and measures 6 inches tall, 3.5 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep. Minor variations and imperfections add to the unique character of each piece.