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Click here to subscribeA Bosch Varioperfect Serie 8 washing machine, approximately 92 cm x 60 cm x 59 cm. NOTE: ITEM IS LOCATED IN THE CH66 POSTCODE AREA (GREAT SUTTON), THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER WILL BE ABLE TO ARRANGE COLLECTION FROM THE PROPERTY ON THURSDAY 4th MAY BETWEEN 9AM AND 3PM OR CAN COLLECT FROM THE SALEROOM FRIDAY 5TH MAY.
Framed Panoramic Photograph of the Officers and Ships Company HMS Furious July 1919, the black and white panoramic photograph shows officers in both naval uniform and that of the early post April 1918 RAF uniform. Housed in a glazed wooden frame measuring 113 x 30cms. HMS Furious was one of the early adapted aircraft carriers built during WW1. Due to the size and nature of this item, we advise specialist shipping or personal collection only, please be aware of this when bidding.
British Sealed Pattern of a Belt, Waist, Bandolier Equipment Leather with a buckle and leather loop. The belt is has labels attached dated 1932, 1968 and 1994. Sealed Patterns of every item of uniform and equipment were kept at ordnance depots and used to ensure that everything supplied by manufacturers complied with the sealed pattern.
In frosted finish. Depicted as standing upon a rocky ledge. Artist signed and dated to bottom of figurine. This item has a wood base included with dimensions of: 8.75 in. L x 5.25 in. W x 6.5 in. H. Artist: Hebe HadlockIssued: 1980Dimensions: 7.5"L x 8.75"W x 12.5"HCountry of Origin: United StatesCondition: Age related wear, with some chipping to base.
Elegant colorless crystal paperweight with frosted intaglio design depicting a swan swimming amongst the brush.Made for Danbury Mint. Wedgwood backstamp. This item has no reserve. Dimensions: 4"L x 1"W x 2.25"HManufacturer: WedgwoodCountry of Origin: EnglandCondition: Age related wear. Minor chip to rear.
Part of the HN Icons Series. Bone china. Royal Doulton backstamp. This item has its original box with dimensions: 6.75 in. L x 7.5 in. W x 5.25 in. H. Certificate of Authenticity included. Issued: 2013Dimensions: 4.75"L x 2.5"W x 5.5"HEdition Number: 1380/2500 Manufacturer: Royal DoultonCondition: Age related wear.
Includes: two round containers (6.5-9.5 in. D) with lid and handles. One is marked Ephraim Murdock to lid. Box (11 in. L x 9.75 in. W x 5 in. H) has hinged lid and decorated with faded tree design and manufacturer details.This item has no reserve. Condition: Age related wear. With one container having missing section of wood by rim and chip to lid. Box has partial metal closure.
Handmade doll with detailed beadwork and wearing traditional garment. Certificate of Authenticity included. This item has a base made of bone or antler included. Artist: Caroline Kava PenayahDimensions: 6"L x 3"W x 12"HEdition Number: 818213 Country of Origin: Alaska, United StatesCondition: Age related wear.
Wood carved mask painted red with metal eye decoration and horsehair. False Face masks can be painted red or black. The masks are painted red if they were being carved in the morning and black if they were started in the afternoon.Signed and titled to inside. Measurements with hair: 30 in. L x 9 in. W. Measurements without hair: 10 in. L x 6 in. W. This item has no reserve. Artist: G. SIssued: c. 1920Condition: Age related wear.
Sylvac cache pot with moulded foliate decoration on a turquoise ground, 12.5 x 14.5cm; Shorter and Son Ltd. pot of urn form, with a reeded body and twin ram heads in a green glaze, 14 x 23.5cm overall; Portmeirion "The Botanic Garden" baluster vase, H.25.5cm; pair of other vases, and another item. (6)
A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A WINGED DRAGON-FISH (MAKATSUGYO)Unsigned Japan, 17th-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022) A Selection of Netsuke & Sagemono from the Collection of Georgina & Gabor Wilhelm, p. 45, no. 66.Powerfully carved, facing ahead with open mouth, the tail curled beneath and the wings drawn into the sides for compactness, the large himotoshi through the mouth and the underside. The ivory bearing a rich, smooth, deep honey-brown patina.LENGTH 7.3 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, expected age cracks, minor losses and chips which have smoothened over time. The netsuke re-purposed as a small handle, likely over 100 years ago.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Literature comparison: Compare three similar examples illustrated in Joly, Henri L. (1966) The W. L. Behrens Collection, Part 1, Netsuke, pl. XXVI, no. 1449 (in stag antler), and pl. XXVII, nos. 1524 and 1525 (in ivory).Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a dragon-fish, with similar sinuous body, expression, and scales, exhibiting less wear but otherwise near-identical, formerly in the Meinertzhagen and Winkworth collections, at Sotheby's, The Carlo Monzino Collection of Netsuke, Inro and Lacquer, 21 June 1995, London, no. 148 (sold for 43,300 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207511129-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A COILED SNAKEUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022), The Gabor and Georgina Wilhelm Collection, p. 63, no. 99.A pleasingly tactile and compact ivory netsuke of a snake (hebi) coiling around itself, with finely incised scales, its head resting on top, its gaze fixed in front, the eyes inlaid in dark horn, and ready to strike. Natural himotoshi. The ivory bearing a superb, honey-yellow patina.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical old wear. Beautiful patina.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of a snake, likely by the same hand, at Bonhams, The Julius & Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part I, 8 November 2016, London, lot 77 (sold for 5,000 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207509859-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
MASATAMI: A VERY FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT ON CHESTNUTBy Masatami (Shomin), signed Masatami 正民Japan, Tokyo, mid to late 19th centuryVery finely carved and beautifully stained to depict a rat awkwardly clambering on a chestnut, the nut realistically rendered with various polished and stippled textures, as well as simulated worm rot. The rat is exquisitely carved with superbly incised fur and large inlaid eyes of dark buffalo horn. The well-carved tail curves around the underside and touches the rodent's body to the side. Himotoshi on either side of the tail and signed MASATAMI – the carver is best known for his idiosyncratic carvings of monkeys, but did occasionally carve rats as well, this is the finest example we have encountered.LENGTH 3.2 cmCondition: The tips of the ears repaired. Otherwise very good condition with minor wear and few fine age cracks.Provenance: From the collection of Dr. Ferdinand and Dr. Gudrun Thaler-Szulyovsky, and thence by descent in the same family. The couple, who had both been practicing law, met in 1967 through their mutual passion for art. Together they built a substantial and diverse art collection including many fine netsuke.Museum comparison:Masatami carved several netsuke depicting monkeys with chestnuts, however the present model of a rat with chestnut appears to be rare. Compare to an ivory netsuke of a monkey with chestnut, by Masatami, in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, accession no. 10.211.1065.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of two rats on a fan, by Masatami, sold at Lempertz, Netsuke und Sagemono inkl. Sammlung Kolodotschko V, 9 June 2017, Cologne, lot 602 (sold for 2,728 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0456).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
MINKOKU: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF YAMA-UBA AND KINTAROBy Shuyusai Minkoku (Minkoku III), signed Minkoku 民谷Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022), The Gabor and Georgina Wilhelm Collection, p. 42, no. 61.The mountain witch Yama-uba depicted here in a youthful manner, wearing a loosely fitted leaf cloak, opening at the chest, supporting Kintaro on her back, while the strong boy pulls on her hair, causing her visible discomfort, the other hand pulling on the leg of a minutely carved baby boar which tries to escape Kintoki's clutches. The details are masterfully carved, particularly the expressions are lifelike and animated. Large himotoshi through the back, the signature located on the hem of the robe within a rectangular reserve MINKOKU.HEIGHT 5.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor expected wear.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Kintaro (also known as the "Golden Boy") is a folk hero from Japanese folklore. A child of superhuman strength, he was raised by Yama-uba on Mount Ashigara. Later he became a loyal follower of Minamoto no Yorimitsu under the new name Sakata no Kintoki. In his youth he was known to wrestle various animals from the mountain and was reputed to be able to lift a baby boar as an infant.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207511178-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
IKKOSAI: AN IMPORTANT AND LARGE IVORY NETSUKE OF IDATEN CAPTURING AN ONIBy Ikkosai Toun, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: International Netsuke Society Journal (Spring 2019) Vol. 39, no. 3, p. 21, fig. 5.Sagemonoya (2022), The Gabor and Georgina Wilhelm Collection, p. 36, no. 52.A remarkably powerful and superbly carved, tall ivory netsuke of Idaten, protector of monasteries and monks, dressed in full Tang Chinese armor, carrying a sheathed sword on his back, capturing the oni shoshitsuki who has stolen a Buddhist reliquary containing one of Buddha's teeth, the protective deity grabbing the oni's mouth and forcefully removing the stolen tooth. The lightly stained ivory is carved with incredible detail – note the finely incised beard of Idaten and the hair of the oni, the various incised patterns to the armor, and the billowing celestial scarves which move seamlessly around the composition. The signature is located within an oval reserve IKKOSAI between the two himotoshi.HEIGHT 8.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor surface wear and only very few natural age cracks. Fine patina.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.This carver Ikkosai, who also used the art name Toun, was likely a direct pupil of Ikkosai Saito Itaro, who also treated this rare subject. Considering the quality and size, the present netsuke has to be regarded as the figural masterpiece of this school. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207511105-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
IKKOSAI: AN AMUSING IVORY SHUNGA NETSUKE OF DAIKOKU AND EBISUBy Ikkosai Saito Itaro, signed Ikkosai 一光斎Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A compact and intricately carved ivory netsuke depicting Daikoku and Ebisu, the latter hunched over a two-pronged daikon (radish) and the former fondling the vegetable, both laughing mischievously at its phallic appearance. Daikoku's rats are also present in this charming carving, one is scurrying underneath the lucky god, looking up at him, and the other is found on top of a basket carved with human-faced handles. The lightly stained ivory bearing a fine patina. Himotoshi through the basket and signed underneath within the typical oval reserve IKKOSAI.LENGTH 3.9 cmCondition: Good condition with minor surface wear. One of the daikon leaves with a chip.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.For a discussion of the artist, see International Netsuke Society Journal (Spring 2019) Vol. 39, no. 2, pp. 13-20.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0013).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
IKKOSAI: AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA, CHOKARO, AND TEKKAI SENNINBy Ikkosai Saito Itaro, signed Ikkosai 一光斎Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An amusing and rather unusual group of three sennin huddled together as they watch Gama's toad riding on Chokaro's horse on top of a scroll. All three sennin are laughing as Tekkai points at the toad in disbelief, while Gama screams out in laughter while pulling on the horse's tail. Chokaro in the back is shown holding his enchanted hyotan (double gourd), tucking it away after releasing the horse. The ivory is lightly stained, as is typical for the artist, and the details are finely carved and embellished with sumi (ink). Himotoshi through the back and underside, the signature underneath located in the typical oval reserve IKKOSAI.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only very minor wear and few natural age cracks.Literature comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke, by Ikkosai, illustrated in Coullery, Marie-Therese and Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, pp. 92-93, no. C 144. For a discussion of the artist, see International Netsuke Society Journal (Spring 2019) Vol. 39, no. 2, pp. 13-20.This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
GYOKKOSAI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF JUROJIN HOLDING A SCROLL By Gyokkosai, signed Gyokkosai 玉光齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the ivory lightly stained and beautifully polished, depicting Jurojin wearing a large cowl draped over his elongated head, laughing jovially, his face framed by a neatly incised beard and pendulous earlobes, holding a scroll before him. The lucky god's loosely fitted robe is minutely incised with scrolling vines and his long sleeves are draping towards the ground. Two himotoshi to the back and signed GYOKKOSAI.HEIGHT 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor expected wear.Provenance: French private collection, purchased from Galerie Yamato, Paris, 2004.Gyokkosai was an accomplished student of Ikkosai Saito Itaro, for a discussion of his work see the International Netsuke Society Journal (Spring 2019) Vol. 39, no. 2, pp. 18-20.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke, by Gyokkosai, was sold by Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 2 November 2019, Vienna, lot 180 (sold for 6,320 EUR). Another closely related netsuke, carved from wood, by Hojitsu, was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 98 (sold for 5,056 EUR). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207508204-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A POWERFUL TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A TARTAR ARCHERUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022), The Gabor and Georgina Wilhelm Collection, p. 10, no. 5.The Mongolian archer standing tall, wearing a typical conical hat, his robes engraved with ornate cloud and wave designs, his mouth agape as he faces to the left, drawing his bow and preparing to shoot his readied arrow. The reverse shows the finely carved quiver with further elaborate designs and the large and generously excavated himotoshi. Superb, deep honey patina.HEIGHT 9.2 cmCondition: Restoration to one foot. Few natural age cracks and minor wear to sumi-stained details. Overall good condition.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Auction comparison:Compare with a closely related ivory netsuke at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 12 May 2016, lot 245 (part lot, sold for 4,375 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207511135-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
RYOJI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SAMBASO DANCERBy Ono Ryoji, signed Ryoji 凌次Japan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryWell carved as a sambaso dancer standing on his right foot, wearing a characteristic striped eboshi with roundels, his voluminous robe neatly incised with pine saplings, leafy chrysanthemum sprays, and a foliate design. He holds a bell tree with cords attached in his right hand. The ivory bearing a subtle stain and fine polish. The back of his robe with two himotoshi. Signed to the underside above his right foot RYOJI.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam.Auction comparison:Compare to a related ivory netsuke of a sambaso dancer, with movable tongue, by Rakumin, at Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries, 20 January 2023, Vienna, lot 1408 (sold for 2,340 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207506036-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
JUGYOKU: A FINE IVORY MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING A SCENE FROM THE KYOGEN PLAY TSURIGITSUNEBy Ryukosai Jugyoku, signed Jugyoku 壽玉Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of circular form, the two-part manju finely stained and carved to one side in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with Hakuzosu holding a fox mask in his right and a staff in his left hand, to his right the fox hunter kneeling, cleverly carved in high relief to give a three-dimensional feel to the scene. The reverse engraved with a fox trap below the central himotoshi and signed JUGYOKU.The combination of the techniques of sunken and high relief is quite rare and cleverly utilized here as it ties into the subject matter of the manju, as the sly fox is depicted in the background, almost lurking in the shadows.DIAMETER 4.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.The manju depicts a scene from the Kyogen play Tsurigitsune ('Fox trapping'), in which a fox hunter is visited by his uncle, the priest Hakuzosu, who lectures his nephew on the evils of killing foxes. The hunter is nearly convinced, but after the priest departs, he hears the cry of the fox and realizes it wasn't his uncle at all but a fox in disguise. The fox resumes his natural form and reverts to his wild ways, takes the bait in a trap, and is captured by the fox hunter.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0497).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
KIKUGAWA: A LARGE IVORY MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING THE WISTERIA MAIDEN (FUJI MUSUME) AND A REPENTANT ONI (ONI NO NENBUTSU)By a member of the Kikugawa family, signed Kikugawa 菊川 with seal Tomoe 巴Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved in shishiaibori with Fujihime holding a trailing branch of wisteria, wearing intricately patterned robes inlaid with mother-of-pearl, gilt-metal, coral, and stained bone, looking coquettishly towards the repentant oni, who shows a hesitant expression, biting one of his fingers, the gesture akin to a fish hook, a gong and inscribed donation ledger tied around his neck, a parasol around his back. The reverse incised and stippled with two sheets of paper bearing an outline of ash-stenciled oni, fitted in the center with a silver loop finial attached with a flap with gold takazogan and carved in katakiri and kebori with flames, clouds, and a waterfall, and signed KIKUGAWA with a red seal tomoe.DIAMETER 6.6 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, natural age cracks, few losses to inlays.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306099/20).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
ITTO: A RARE OBIDOME-FORM IVORY NETSUKE OF A WRITHING RAIN DRAGON By Itto, signed Itto 一東Japan, Nagasaki, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved in openwork, the netsuke of obidome form, yet also able to stand with the body and signed claw forming the base. The four-clawed, two-horned rain dragon with a sinuously writhing body carved with flickering flames, densely arranged scales, and neatly incised mane, further detailed with almost hand-like claws and a long baku-like snout. Several natural himotoshi due to the openwork. One paw carved with a raised oblong reserve incised with the signature ITTO – the artist was born in Kyoto but studied sculpture in Nagasaki.HEIGHT 6.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, microscopic nibbling to edges. Provenance: Ex-collection Étienne de Villaret, Paris. With an old handwritten and illustrated description of the present netsuke by the previous owner.Literature comparison: Compare a walrus ivory obidome manju depicting a rain dragon, illustrated in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. III, p. 380-381, no. 561.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207510849-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
HOKOKU: A SHIBAYAMA-INLAID IVORY NETSUKE DEPICTING DAIKOKUBy Hokoku, signed Hokoku 峯谷 Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)The netsuke formed as Daikoku's treasure bag slung over the lucky god's back, Daikoku with a cheerful expression and pointing at a small rat which has escaped from the bag along with two coins, the reverse with Daikoku's hammer with a tasseled cord, all detailed with subtle incision work and finely inlaid in the Shibayama style with mother-of-pearl, lacquer, bone, wood, gilt metal, silver, pewter, and hardstone.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, fine age cracks, few light scratches.Museum comparison:Compare a closely related inlaid ivory netsuke by Hokoku in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 10.211.116.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306306/20). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A LARGE AND RARE IVORY TOBORI NETSUKE OF A MYTHICAL BEASTUnsignedJapan, 17th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022) A Selection of Netsuke & Sagemono from the Collection of Georgina & Gabor Wilhelm, p. 44, no. 64.Boldly carved as a one-horned mythical beast standing foursquare atop a shaped base, its long tail furcated in neatly incised scrolling strands with one swept up to its side, the feet with further 'winged swirls', its mane and beard boldly carved with further curls. The ivory bearing a superb, deep honey-brown patina. HEIGHT 6.5 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, expected age cracks, many losses and chips, most which have smoothened over time.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.While Gabor Wilhelm suggests the mythical being can be identified as a kaichi (xiezhi), a divine beast from Chinese mythology which symbolizes justice and fairness, the mythical creature is rather difficult to positively identify as it also shares characteristics with a kirin and a luduan.These type of tobori (Chinese carvings) belong to earliest type of netsuke known. They were either carved in China and re-purposed as netsuke in Japan or carved in Japan using Chinese source materials.Auction comparison: Compare a Chinese ivory seal with a mythical beast finial at Bonhams, 21 December 2011, San Francisco, lot 8549 (sold for 6,875 USD). Compare an ivory seal netsuke of a hakutaku at Bonhams, 15 May 2014, London, lot 14 (sold for 7,500 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207511128-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
HIDEYUKI: A RARE IVORY AND LACQUER NETSUKE OF BATHING SKELETONSBy Hideyuki, signed Hideyuki 秀之Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)A rare ivory netsuke depicting a skeleton sitting in a contemplative pose inside a small silver-lacquered tub, a washing rag in its hand, another skeleton seated behind and washing his companion's back. The underside carved with a lotus leaf, two asymmetrical himotoshi, the smaller one florally rimmed, and the signature HIDEYUKI within an aogai inlaid plaque. The artist favored skulls and skeletons as a subject and usually signed within an inlaid aogai plaque. The present composition is quite unusual and possibly unique for the artist.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2200600397-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
SHOUNSAI: AN EXCELLENT AND RARE WOOD AND IVORY NETSUKE OF DARUMABy Shounsai Joryu, signed Shounsai 升雲齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1868-1912)Published: Illustrated in F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part A, New York, 1986, page 263.Depicting the Zen patriarch Daruma with a pensive expression. Daruma is almost entirely covered in a priestly robe flowing in the wind, carved from wood with a stunning patina and grain. His face and bare torso are inlaid in ivory, with incised beard and chest hair, and his facial features are crafted very well. Daruma was of either Persian, central Asian or south Indian descent, which is reflected in this netsuke – making it a rare portrait of this important and historical Buddhist monk, who is often caricaturized in netsuke art. His sandaled feet and the thin reed which he floats on are also carved from a single piece of ivory. The backside with good himotoshi above the signature SHOUNSAI.HEIGHT 6.3 cmCondition: Very good condition.Provenance: Anonymous sale, Glendining, 31st May 1935, then Jay Hopkins and hence British collection.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL305882/20). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A FISHERMAN CARRYING A BOY, ATTRIBUTED TO GECHUAttributed to Gechu, unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022) A Selection of Netsuke & Sagemono from the Collection of Georgina & Gabor Wilhelm, p. 31, no. 45.Exquisitely carved as a fisherman clad only in a leafy skirt, carved in elegantly flowing, neatly incised strands, standing on one foot in a dynamic pose, carrying a small boy on his back, the child wearing a short robe and holding on to his father's beard and head. Both father and son show elated expressions as they are clearly having a lot of fun in this joyful moment, although the fisherman must be in pain as the boy tugs on his long chin beard. The fisherman with the mouth wide open, showing tongue and teeth, and large eyes inlaid with dark horn. One of the strands of the straw skirt forms the cord attachment. The ivory with a superb, rich, honey-yellow patina. HEIGHT 8 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, minor age cracks, the fisherman's left foot restored.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Gechu is a somewhat enigmatic carver of netsuke, in that little is known of him, including his residence. For many years he has been thought to have lived in Osaka, mainly based upon the similarity of his work to that of Risuke Garaku of that city. Recently it has been suggested by Alain Ducros that he may well have been domiciled in Satsuma Province on the island of Kyushu, see Ducros, Alain (Summer 2016) Satsuma Ivory Netsuke, International Netsuke Society Journal, Vol. 36, No. 2, p. 20-29. This type of netsuke is typically unsigned but can be confidently attributed to Gechu, or at the very least a close follower. Note the dynamism of the carving and the excellent facial expression marked by characteristically large inlaid eyes, which is quite unique and gives the face a foreign if not otherworldly appearance.Literature comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke by Gechu of a sennin with similarly large inlaid eyes, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. I, p. 399.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207509550-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A SARUMAWASHI, ATTRIBUTED TO GECHUAttributed to Gechu, unsigned Japan, Osaka, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022) A Selection of Netsuke & Sagemono from the Collection of Georgina & Gabor Wilhelm, p. 16, no. 17.Powerfully carved as a standing monkey trainer, holding his cane in his right hand, wearing a robe with finely incised folds, a small woven basket tied to his belt, his large bag tied around his neck, his monkey seated on his shoulder, wearing a patterned robe and striking an amusing pose with both hands touching his face, the monkey trainer with an equally humorous expression with the mouth wide open, their eyes inlaid in dark horn. The back with two asymmetrical himotoshi placed at angle. The ivory with a superb, honey-golden patina. This type of netsuke is typically unsigned but can be confidently attributed to Gechu, or at the very least a close follower.HEIGHT 8.2 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, fine age cracks, the feet and a section of the cane are repaired.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Gechu is a somewhat enigmatic carver of netsuke, in that little is known of him, including his residence. For many years he has been thought to have lived in Osaka, mainly based upon the similarity of his work to that of Risuke Garaku of that city. Recently it has been suggested by Alain Ducros that he may well have been domiciled in Satsuma Province on the island of Kyushu (Alain Ducros, Satsuma Ivory Netsuke, INSJ, Vol. 36, no. 2, Summer 2016, pp. 20-29). In the same article by Mr. Ducros there is a similar ivory netsuke of a foreign-looking sarumawashi (fig. 13.).Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a Chinese sarumawashi, most likely by the same hand, dated 18th century, at Christie's, Fine Netsuke formerly in the Albert Brockhaus Collection, 25 November 1980, London, lot 95 (illustrated in color on the frontispiece). This netsuke is also illustrated in Joly, Henri L. (1966) The W. L. Behrens Collection, Part 1, Netsuke, pl. XVII, no. 812.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207509862-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
KO: AN INLAID WALRUS IVORY RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH DEPICTING THE THREE FRIENDS OF WINTER (SHOCHIKUBAI)By Ko, sealed Ko 光Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa, second half of 19th centuryOf circular form, intricately carved in openwork with craggy rockwork, thick clouds, pine, bamboo, and a jakago (bamboo basket), and finely decorated in shibuichi and copper takazogan with the stump of a tree issuing a single branch bearing plum blossoms. The reverse with a central himotoshi surrounded by bamboo leaves and pine clusters as well as a circular reserve incised with a single seal character KO.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, natural imperfections.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.Literature comparison: Compare a related inlaid ivory ryusa manju netsuke, also signed Ko in seal form, similarly carved with pines and bamboo, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 627.This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
ISHIKAWA RENSAI: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A FISHERMAN SUBDUING A FUGU (BLOWFISH)By Ishikawa Rensai, signed Rensai 蓮齋Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa District, second half of 19th centuryPublished: Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. III, p. 52-53, no. 357.Superbly polished, amusingly and finely carved as a fisherman on top of a giant fugu, his behind resting squarely on the fish's head, his hands grabbing the tail fin, his legs spread out as he uses all his strength to hold the fugu down, which has been considerably flattened by the man's effort, forming the oval base of the netsuke, the underside with two asymmetrical himotoshi and the rather unusual signature RENSAI in sosho script. Note the fine staining to the fugu's head and surrounding area.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Literature comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke depicting a similar subject by Rensai, with similar staining to the fugu, illustrated in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (1996) Meetings with Remarkable Netsuke, London, no. 90, and also illustrated with a line drawing in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 647. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0213 ). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
MITSUHIRO: A RARE AND IMPORTANT IVORY NETSUKE OF THE GHOST OF OIWA AS A CHOCHIN (LANTERN)By Ohara Mitsuhiro (1810-1875), signed Mitsuhiro 光廣Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: The Honolulu Academy of Arts Netsuke Exhibit (1975) INCS Journal Vol. 3, No. 1, p. 31, no. 70.Lazarnick, George (1976) The Signature Book of Netsuke, Inro and Ojime Artists in Photographs, p. 286.Hurtig, Helen (1980) Grotesqueries in Netsuke, INCS Journal Vol. 8, No. 1, p. 32, no. 26A.Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 72 (in color) and p. 779.Eskenazi (1990) Japanese netsuke from the Lazarnick collection, p. 53, no. 30.Eskenazi (1998) Japanese netsuke, ojime and inro from a private European collection, p. 34, no. 26.Finely carved, the paper lantern baring the open-mouthed face of the ghastly heroine, the pupils inlaid with dark horn, her neatly incised long hair brushed back and her eyes inlaid, the incised details and inscriptions on the ivory skillfully stained for effect. The forehead bears a bonji (Sanskrit character). The back of the lantern bears an inscription Namu Amida butsu zokumyo Oiwa-jo (save us merciful Buddha, the woman commonly known as Oiwa), beside the asymmetrical himotoshi and below the signature MITSUHIRO. The staining and extensive use of sumi-e, as well as the minutely incised signature, is certainly coherent with the work of Mitsuhiro, while the size and subject matter are a departure from this celebrated artist's usual work. It is likely that the present netsuke was a one-off commission.HEIGHT 5.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, natural flaws including expected age cracks. Provenance: Ex-collection George Lazarnick. Eskenazi, London, 1990. Ex-collection Emiel Veranneman, acquired from the above. Eskenazi, London, 1998. Sotheby's, May 2007, London, lot 785 (described as “after Ohara Mitsuhiro; sold for GBP 6,600). European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.Oiwa died in 1636 and even today it is believed that she haunts the place of her death as well as anyone who performs her story which was adapted into the famous kabuki play Tokaido Yotsuya Kaidan (Ghost story of Yotsuya in Tokaido) in 1825. The story is a tale of betrayal, murder, and ghostly revenge which features Tamiya Iemon who poisoned his loving wife Oiwa, who in turn haunted him and drove him mad. The design of the present netsuke is taken from a woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) titled Oiwa-san from the series Hyaku monogatari (One Hundred Ghost Stories), circa 1831-1832.This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
AN IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEI AND DAIKOKU WRESTLINGUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022), The Gabor and Georgina Wilhelm Collection, p. 23, no. 32.The lucky gods Hotei and Daikoku clad only in a fundoshi (loincloth), the two grimacing combatants locked in a fierce sumo battle, Hotei lifting Daikoku over his back, about to perform the shumoku-zori (backwards body drop) and win the match. The carving is remarkably three-dimensional, and the expressions are masterfully crafted, framed by thick pendulous earlobes. . Beautiful, deep honey patina. Natural himotoshi through Daikoku's left leg and Hotei's back.HEIGHT 6 cmCondition: Hotei's two feet are restored. Otherwise, fine condition with few natural age cracks.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.This representation of a wrestling match between Hotei and Daikoku also illustrates the victory of the spiritual (Hotei) over financial luck (Daikoku).Museum comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of Hotei and Daikoku wrestling in the collection of The British Museum, accession no. 1945,1017.596.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207509861-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A GOOD KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF SHOKI, ATTRIBUTED TO OKATOMOAttributed to Yamaguchi Okatomo, unsignedJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Expressively carved, the demon queller grabbing his wide-brimmed hat, suspecting an oni hiding there, and unsheathing his sword in retaliation, his face marked by wildly flowing beard and intense gaze, the eyes inlaid in dark horn. Large generously excavated himotoshi through the back, the ivory bearing a super, deep-yellow patina.HEIGHT 7.4 cmCondition: Good condition with old wear and age cracks.Provenance: From an old Austrian private collection.Museum comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of shoki and oni, by Okatomo, in the collection of The British Museum, accession no. F.693.Auction comparison:Compare to a related ivory netsuke of Shoki and oni, Kyoto school, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 42 (sold for 2,928 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0031).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF SHIROUnsignedJapan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Rutherston & Bandini (2013) Japanese Netsuke, no. 4.Depicting Emma-o's attendant Shiro, who was sent to steal Daikoku's bag of rice, being attacked with a branch of holly by one of the lucky god's rats. Shiro is shown here in a cowering posture, biting into his folded arms in front of him, signifying his defeat. He has long hair, large horns and wears a tiger skin loincloth. The underside shows the very large, generously excavated himotoshi, and a gorgeous, rich honey-yellow patina.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and few age cracks.Provenance: A private collection, purchased from Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 13 (sold for 5,490 EUR).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
AN IVORY KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE DEPICTING PILGRIMS CLIMBING THE GREAT BUDDHA OF NARAUnsigned Japan, late 19th centuryPublished: Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 419, no. 1245.The shibuichi plate cast in relief with gilt details to depict a man standing on the shoulder of the giant Buddha statue at Todai-ji, lowering some rope for his companion to grab, of whom we can only see one arm as his head is obscured by his hat, the Buddha also only partly visible, his neck wrinkles, earlobe, hair locks, and facial features neatly incised. The ivory bowl superbly polished, the reverse with a central himotoshi.DIAMETER 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, light surface scratches, some rubbing to gilt.Provenance: Ex-collection S.X. Constantinidi. Sotheby's, 26 November 1935, London. Ex-collection Mark T. Hindson, acquired from the above. Sotheby's, The M. T. Hindson Collection of Important Japanese Works of Art, Part VIII (Final), London, 20 October 1969, lot 512. Ex-collection Edward A. Wrangham, acquired from the above. Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art Part III, 15 May 2012, lot 125. Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, acquired from the above.The present netsuke depicts the giant statue of Buddha at Todai-ji, a Buddhist temple complex in Nara. The statue is the largest bronze seated Buddha in Japan at 15 m high and was completed in 751. The Great Buddha statue has been recast several times for various reasons, including earthquake damage. The current hands of the statue were made in the Momoyama Period, and the head was made in the Edo period. The Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden) has been rebuilt twice after fire. The current building was finished in 1709 and was the world's largest wooden building until 1998.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL310832/20). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
GYOKUZAN: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A KIRINBy Gyokuzan, signed Gyokuzan 玉山Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved seated on its haunches, the head raised and turned to one side, the mouth agape showing teeth and tongue, the plumage, mane, beard, tail, and flames all meticulously incised and darkly stained, the muscles subtly carved, the hooves well detailed, the belly and back with the himotoshi, the eyes inlaid with ebony, one haunch signed GYOKUZAN.HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, expected age cracks, the horn repaired.Provenance: British private collection.The Kirin is derived from the Chinese mythical beast Qilin, one of the four divine creatures, the others being the dragon, phoenix, and turtle. The Japanese Kirin is something of wild mythical fantasy – its most characteristic feature is of course the horn, as it is also called the Japanese unicorn. It has four legs with hooves and the hindlegs are covered with very well-expressed fatty tissue, like that of a shishi. The rest of the body is covered in dense plumage, like that of a phoenix.Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shishi by Gyokuzan, with a very similar signature, at Koller, 27 March 2010, Zurich, lot 280. Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shishi by Mitsuharu at Bonhams, 12 November 2008, London, lot 422 (sold for 4,200 GBP). Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a kirin, described as “style of Mitsuharu”, at Bonhams, 19 March 2013, New York, lot 2145 (sold for 12,500 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308313/20).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A PRANCING SHISHIUnsigned Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Gabor Wilhelm (Spring 2002) On the Continent, International Netsuke Society Journal, Vol. 22, No. 1, p. 48.Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2004) Outside the Box, p. 56, no. 25.An exquisitely carved ivory netsuke of a shishi with its rump in the air, turning to snarl at its own tail. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn and there is a loose ball in its mouth. The low relief, well-polished lumpy excrescences to brow and haunches contrast nicely with the high relief whorls and curls of mane and tail, and with the deeply patinated smooth rounded surfaces of the body and legs. The carving is deep and bold throughout, and features some delicate textural stippling on the pads of the large feet. The himotoshi is cleverly positioned, with the larger of the two holes issuing through the rear legs. The ivory with a fine, honey-yellow patina.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, appealingly worn, few minor age cracks.Provenance: Rossini, Paris, 3 December 2001, lot 2. Sydney L. Moss Ltd., London, 2004. French private collection, acquired from the above.One curious aspect of this shishi netsuke is that it is slightly off balance when resting on all four legs, turning as if in surprise and shock at the sight of its own, admittedly rather scary tail rising up threateningly behind it. The animal appears to be in immediate danger of toppling over as it turns. This oddity is explained by a most unusual aspect: the beast is also designed to sit up on its rear legs with forepaws in the air, at which point it turns to look back on a level, horizontal plane and is a thoroughly coherent sculpture, with more movement and originality than most.The carving shares stylistic elements with both Tomotada and Mitsuharu of Kyoto, while the inherent wit of the carving is reminiscent of the Osaka school.Auction comparison:Compare to a related ivory netsuke of a shishi, by Tomoharu, at Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Private Collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 79 (sold for 6,250 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2201700452-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
MASATOMO: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A HARE WITH MUSHROOMBy Masatomo, signed Masatomo 正友 Japan, Kyoto, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Joly, Henri (1975) Catalogue of the H. Seymour Trower Collection of Japanese Art, no. 204 (unillustrated).Bulletin Franco-Japonais (2002) no. 78, p. 2.Wilhelm, Gabor (2002) Bulletin Franco-Japonais, no. 79, p. 42. Wilhelm, Gabor (Spring 2003) On the Continent, International Netsuke Society Journal, Vol. 23, No. 1, p. 18.Well carved as a rabbit seated on its haunches and nursing a mushroom between its front paws, the animal detailed with oval eyes inlaid with pale buffalo horn, long floppy ears, and a short curled tail, the fur neatly incised and darkly stained, the underside of the mushroom cap with incised radial gills creating an appealing contrast to the smooth cap and stem, the underside with asymmetrical, generously excavated himotoshi, the right haunch with the signature within a shaped reserve MASATOMO.LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few minor age cracks.Provenance: Ex-collection H. Seymour Trower (recorded in Henri Joly's catalog, no. 204). Piasa, 23 October 2002, Paris, lot 235 (sold for 8,200 EUR). French private collection, acquired from the above.Museum comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a hare with mushroom by Okatomo, dated late 18th to early 19th century, in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, accession number 47.925.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2201700456-K).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.
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