Hotei God c. 1833

This woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada, created in 1833, depicts Hotei, the Japanese god of happiness and contentment. He is depicted in his traditional pose, with a large belly and a cheerful expression, holding a bag of treasures and a fan. This print is a fine example of Kunisada’s mastery of ukiyo-e style, known for its vibrant colors and detailed imagery. The print's small size, typical of shikishiban format, makes it intimate and collectible, adding to its charm. This playful yet spiritual image would have appealed to a wide audience in 19th-century Japan.