However, Hotei is also seen as a one of the Shichi Fukujin, the seven Japanese Shinto-gods of luck. Hotei is not limited just to Japan though, he is found among many Chinese Buddhists. Many Chinese temples will have Hotei located at the entrance of the temple or seen in the courts and he is worshipped as a god of good luck and prosperity. One such image is located by the Hsi Lai temple.
The image of Hotei is sometimes seen carrying a cloth or linen sack. It is usually filled with many precious items, including candy for children, food, or the woes of the world. Sometimes it can be filled with children who are seen as precious items of this world. In some scenes he may be found sitting on a cart drawn by boys.
The large, fat belly is a symbol of happiness, luck, and generosity.
The name Hotei actually means "cloth bag" or "glutton." A legend has it that if a person is to rub his belly, it brings forth wealth, good luck, and prosperity.
Another item that may be seen with the Hotei figure, is a begging bowl. This represents his Buddhist nature. All of these images display Hotei as a wandering monk who goes around and takes sadness away from the people of this world. He most certainly is a loving and cheerful character.
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How to keep a Brass statue well-maintained?
Brass statues are known and appreciated for their exquisite beauty and luster. The brilliant bright gold appearance of Brass makes it appropriate for casting aesthetic statues and sculptures. Brass is a metal alloy composed mainly of copper and zinc. This chemical composition makes brass a highly durable and corrosion-resistant material. Due to these properties, Brass statues and sculptures can be kept both indoors as well as outdoors. They also last for many decades without losing all their natural shine.
Brass statues can withstand even harsh weather conditions very well due to their corrosion-resistance properties. However, maintaining the luster and natural beauty of brass statues is essential if you want to prolong their life and appearance.
In case you have a colored brass statue, you may apply mustard oil using a soft brush or clean cloth on the brass portion while for the colored portion of the statue, you may use coconut oil with a cotton cloth.
Brass idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses are especially known for their intricate and detailed work of art. Nepalese sculptures are famous for small brass idols portraying Buddhist deities. These sculptures are beautified with gold gilding and inlay of precious or semi-precious stones. Religious brass statues can be kept at home altars. You can keep a decorative brass statue in your garden or roof to embellish the area and fill it with divinity.
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