ART Arthur Pepper Laughing Buddha Pendant Necklace

This rare and whimsical vintage “Laughing Buddha” pendant necklace was made by ART (Arthur Pepper) and features a charming buddha-like figure with a cream lucite head and gold-tone body. The robe is accented with faux jade nuggets, malachite-style stones, and sparkling aurora borealis rhinestones, topped off with a tiny Qing-style official’s hat. The textured gold-tone rolo chain has a large spring-ring clasp and measures 20". The pendant hangs about 2.5". Often called the “Laughing Buddha,” this figure actually represents Budai—a joyful, good-luck symbol in Chinese folklore who’s commonly confused with the historical Buddha.