11″ God of wealth Ride on Tiger Buddha Statue

An 11-inch Chinese Brass God of Wealth statue is a striking symbol of prosperity, abundance, and good fortune. In Chinese culture, the God of Wealth (Caishen, 财神) holds a prominent place in homes, businesses, and temples, revered as the divine bringer of material and spiritual prosperity.

Iconography and Symbolism

1.Appearance:

The statue depicts Caishen in imperial attire, signifying authority and opulence. His robes often feature intricate designs, including dragons or auspicious patterns, symbolizing power and protection.

2.Facial Expression:

A calm yet commanding expression reflects his role as a benevolent provider and protector of wealth.

3.Attributes Held:

•Gold Ingot: Often held in one hand or placed in a treasure pot, representing wealth accumulation and financial blessings.

•Ruyi Scepter: A curved, decorative staff signifying power, success, and fulfillment of wishes.

•Scrolls or Money Bags: May feature inscriptions of auspicious phrases like 招财进宝 (Zhao Cai Jin Bao, “Attract wealth and treasure”).

4.Positioning and Stance:

Caishen may be standing or seated on a throne, exuding dignity. The throne itself often rests on a base decorated with wealth motifs like coins, ingots, or mythical creatures like the Pixiu.

Material and Craftsmanship

1.Brass Material:

Brass, an alloy of copper and zinc, is valued for its durability and golden sheen, enhancing the statue’s regal and auspicious qualities. Its radiant surface symbolizes the light of prosperity illuminating all corners of life.

2.Artistic Details:

The statue’s finish often includes polished highlights and darkened recesses, adding depth and emphasizing fine details, from the folds of the robes to the expressions of the face.

Placement and Ritual Use

1.Placement for Feng Shui:

•Position the statue in a wealth-enhancing area, like the southeast corner of a home or business, known as the wealth sector in Feng Shui.

•Avoid placing it in kitchens, bathrooms, or directly on the ground, as these locations are considered disrespectful.

2.Ritual Practices:

•Offerings such as incense, fruits, or symbolic coins are made to Caishen to invoke his blessings.

•During the Lunar New Year, many Chinese families and businesses prominently display the God of Wealth statue to invite a year of prosperity.

Interestingly, the God of Wealth has different manifestations in Chinese tradition, including Wen Caishen (文财神), the civil God of Wealth, associated with knowledge and financial management, and Wu Caishen (武财神), the martial God of Wealth, linked to protection and business success. Some believe displaying both forms together balances spiritual and material abundance, creating a harmonious flow of wealth energy.

An 11-inch brass statue of Caishen is not just decorative but serves as a magnet for wealth and a reminder to act with gratitude, integrity, and responsibility in managing resources.