I have recently acquired a porcelain laughing Buddha figurine that I am seeking to identify and appraise. The figurine is marked with an artist signature and the number "19888" on the bottom. Additionally, the figurine is in good condition with no visible damage. For your convenience, I have attached clear photos of the figurine from multiple angles, including the signature and markings on the base. Could you please assist with: Identifying the artist or manufacturer based on the signature and number Estimating the origin and approximate age of the figurine Providing a market value or sale price range based on current demand Thank you very much for your time and expertise. I look forward to your response. Sincerely, Melody Finlaw
9" x 7" x 7"
Hello, this item is a glazed porcelain Laughing Buddha, also known as Budai or Hotei, figurine, likely a late 20th-century decorative Asian ceramic piece dating to around the 1980s or 1990s. The figure shows the smiling monk enveloped in a flowing pale celadon-white robe with a soft pink flesh tone to the face and body, red-painted mouth, fine crazing in the glaze, and gilt or ochre detailing along the lower edge. The base bears a handwritten Asian-style signature or studio mark and the number β1988,β which likely indicates a date, inventory number, or production reference rather than an imperial or major factory mark. The subject is rooted in Chinese Buddhist and folk devotional imagery, where Budai symbolizes happiness, abundance, generosity, and good fortune, but this example is best positioned as a modern decorative porcelain figure rather than an antique temple or high-collecting ceramic.
The figurine appears to be in good overall condition from the photographs, with no obvious chips, cracks, or losses visible, though the glaze crazing should be noted as either intentional surface character or age-related glaze condition. The glossy finish, charming expression, and clean presentation make it attractive for decorative collectors of Asian-inspired porcelain, but the lack of a recognizable maker, documented provenance, or major kiln attribution keeps the value modest. Comparable late 20th-century porcelain Laughing Buddha figures of similar size and quality usually sell in the lower decorative Asian art range. Fair Market Value: $60 - $140 USD.