The artist has meticulously created the Laughing Buddha that is usually represented as a rotund figure with a happy disposition. His wide belly, happy disposition reflects abundance and a sign of prosperity. The belief is that rubbing his belly often leads to good luck and prosperity. He is a symbol of happiness, wealth, kindness and innocent contented joy. His Chinese name is Pu-tai Ho-shang or "Hemp-bag monk". He is originally a fertility figure who was known to bring "goodies" in his bag to local townsfolk, especially children. Later, he became a pre-incarnation of Maitreya. In Japan he is called Hotei and is one of the seven lucky gods.