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Vintage HAR Laughing Buddha Brooch, Faux Ivory & Gold, 1960s USA

About the Item

This rare and playful vintage “Laughing Buddha” brooch, crafted by HAR (Hargo Creations of New York) a business founded by Joseph Heibronner and Edith Levitt in 1955. This is a charming buddha like figure from their collections in the 1960s with a faux ivory head and a gold-tone body. The robe is embellished with faux jade nuggets, malachite stones, and shimmering aurora borealis rhinestones, while the figure is topped with a small Qing dynasty-style official’s hat. Although commonly referred to as the “Laughing Buddha,” the figure actually represents Budai, a beloved folkloric deity in Chinese culture often depicted smiling or laughing. Budai is sometimes linked to the future Buddha (Maitreya), and while distinct from the historical Buddha, he is frequently mistaken for him—leading to his widespread nicknames, the “Laughing Buddha” or “Fat Buddha.” Height 2.5" Width 1.6"
  • Creator:
  • Weight:
    28 g
  • Dimensions:
    Width: 2 in (50.8 mm)Length: 2.75 in (69.85 mm)
  • Place of Origin:
    United States
  • Period:
    1960-1969
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1960
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Miami, FL
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU3389227173702