Stylized Japanese Deities

[Chagrin]

Working on some concepts for a project I'm doing, and also trying to develop a personal illustration style. I'm trying to do the Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin), in addition to other deities like Raijin & Fujin, Amatsu-Mikaboshi, etc.

First up is Hotei or Budai, a minor but culturally significant folkloric deity widely recognized in the West as the 'Smiling Buddha' or 'Laughing Buddha'.


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[Chagrin]

Design idea for Fukurokuju. Fukurokuju is theorized to be a syncretic fusion of Three Chinese Star gods: Fu, Lu and Shou. He is a Sennin; an immortal hermit or sage. He is most recognized by his elongated head (sometimes depicted as being three-times the size of his body).

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[Chagrin]

WIP of Ebisu. He is the patron god of fishermen and merchants. His exact origin story is unclear. One story suggests he was born of the Izanagi and Izanami, and because he was born without bones, was abandoned at sea and adopted by fishermen.

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