Antique Oriental Qing Dynasty Walking Stick Hand-Carved Laughing Buddha Handle

Antique Oriental Qing Dynasty Walking Stick - Hand-Carved Laughing Buddha Handle. This oriental stick features an intricate hand-sculpted handle in the shape of a laughing or happy Buddha. The Laughing Buddha emerged from Chinese folktales of the 10th century. The original stories of the Laughing Buddha centered on a Ch'an monk named Ch'i-t'zu, or Qieci, from Fenghua, in what is now the province of Zhejiang.

Ch'i-t'zu was an eccentric but much-loved character who worked small wonders, such as predicting the weather. The tales of Ch'i-t'zu spread throughout China, and he came to be called Pu-tai (Budai), which means hempen sack. He carries a sack full of good things, such as sweets for children, and he is often pictured with children.

Pu-tai represents happiness, generosity, and wealth, and he is a protector of children, the poor, and the weak. The stick is made fully from fruitwood with a rubber ferrule. Historical stick, perfect for an oriental collector or for use. Measurements: Length - 90.0cm Diameter of the handle - 11.1cm Diameter of the shaft under the top - 3.0cm Weight - 386g. Auctiva offers Free Image Hosting and Editing.

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