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Lot 446
A COLLECTION OF CERAMICS, to include a Carlton Ware striped preserve pot (cracked lid), a Kensington Pottery 'Honeycomb' cream jug and covered butter dish, two striped Gray's Pottery bowls, a Shorter & Son Ltd. biscuit jar (Pagoda style dwelling) with three matching tea plates and preserve pot (damaged), a Royal Ware 'Pixie' plate, two Hancock's Ivory Ware plates, together with a Measham Barge Ware teapot (cracked base, broken and chipped lid, repairs to rim, dated 1877), etc. (Qty) (Condition report: crazing to most pieces in varying degrees, some missing lids)
Lot 218
Matte porcelain vase painted in coral color with filigree panels of ivory colored foliage design. Gold rim and accents. Locke and Co. Shrub Hill Worcester backstamp. Issued: 1896-1914Dimensions: 3.25"L x 3.25"W x 6.75"HManufacturer: Locke and Co.Country of Origin: EnglandCondition: Age related wear.
Lot 721
A Longines Conquest automatic bracelet watch, the circular ivory dial signed "Longines Automatic Swiss" with gilt baton index and outer minute track with 5-minute markers, date aperture at 3 o'clock position, steel case diameter 25mm with a yellow metal engraved bezel and matching yellow crown, fitted with integral steel and yellow bracelet with central deployant butterfly clasp, exhibition case back revealing the movement, model no. L1.120.3. (Watch is currently ticking but timekeeping has not been tested, light scratches to case and bracelet commensurate with normal wear and tear).
Lot 432
Slot car interest comprising Revell No. 08339 Audi Sport quattro Winner Rally Ivory Coast 1984, 08324 Mercedes-Benz 300 SE #100 Spa 1964, 08329 Lotus Cortina Armin Lorch and 08315 Audi Sport quattro SWB RAC Rally 1984. All look to be without obvious sign of fault with little or no use in original boxes.
Lot 311
19th century Anglo Indian sewing box, carved with birds, animals and flowers, ivory inlaid border and with lidded boxes to the interior, raised on metal paw feet, (one has worked loose) (a/f) 32 x 23cm (Please note: Franklin Browns have applied for a de minimis exemption licence for the ivory in this lot (LZNXAKM7)
Lot 190
18th century needlework depicting a gentleman offering his hand to a farmgirl on the edge of a woodland, with fields of wheat and country house beyond, long stitch in coloured silks and raised stumpwork on an ivory silk ground, 34.8 x 42.2cm, in an ornate gilt and glazed frame, 55 x 62.5cm, (some tears)
Lot 33
A Rosary box (Tasbih) made from ivory in the 20th century. The decorations contain many important Ottoman historical places like the Mevlana Turkish Museum, Hagia Sophia Mosque, Uskudar Tower, Sultanate Boat and more.It is hand painted with high quality, delicate pictures.The box has three layers and a lid. It is in very good condition and the dimensions are 21 by 17 cm.
Lot 1
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.
Lot 114
RANSEN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A DRUNKEN TANUKI HARA NO TSUZUMIBy Ransen, signed Ransen 蘭川Japan, Kyoto, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The jovial badger sitting on an emptied sake bottle (tokkuri), one paw resting on its bushy tail, forming the cord attachment, and drumming on its bloated belly, raising its head, the mouth slightly opened with visible teeth, as if about to let out a drunken howl. The eyes are inlaid dark horn and the fur is finely incised. Signed underneath the sake bottle RANSEN – a pupil of the Hogen Rantei of Kyoto.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor surface wear.The tanuki possesses magical powers and can change forms, sometimes into Buddhist monks; they are jovial, but also dangerous, as they have been known to suffocate hunters with their enormous scrotums. The act of drumming on the belly, according to legend, was used by tanuki to beguile travelers and hunters to lead them astray. However, it has also been said that tanuki would get together just for fun, drumming on their bellies under the moonlight, perhaps even with some sake involved.Literature comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke of a belly drumming tanuki without the sake bottle, by Ransen, illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 90, no. 248. Auction comparison:Compare to an ivory netsuke of a belly drumming tanuki with the sake bottle, by Rantei, sold at Sotheby's, The Carlo Monzino Collection of Netsuke, Inro and Lacquer, 21 June 1995, London, lot 335 (sold for 3,220 GBP).
Lot 153
SEIMIN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A FROGS ON A LOTUS LEAFBy Seimin, signed Seimin 晴民Japan, Iwashiro Province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A well-carved and beautifully worn wood netsuke, depicting four frogs of varying size, dynamically arranged on a furled lotus leaf, two of them tying a sandal rope in the center, perhaps preparing for some tug of war action. The underside with the curved stem serving as the cord attachment and the signature SEIMIN within a mother-of-pearl tablet. The artist is best known for his depictions of frogs and is therefore also referred to as 'Kaeru Seimin'. While many unsigned works are attributed to him, signed examples are rather scarce. The wear and overall boldness of the carving indicate an early work by this master.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear. A small crack to the side of the lotus leaf by one of the frog's trailing legs.Literature comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of frogs on a lotus leaf, by Seimin, illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 262, no. 812.
Lot 156
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.
Lot 173
RYUSEI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF AN ACTOR WITH A BUAKU MASKBy Ryusei, signed Ryusei 龍生Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved to depict an actor seated with legs crossed, holding a large sake bowl with both hands over his lap, his expression betraying a state of inebriation, his face well detailed and hair neatly incised. The actor wears a typical robe incised with roundels and cloud designs, a Buaku mask carved from ivory tied to his forehead and hanging to the side of his head. The underside with two asymmetrical himotoshi, the larger of which is generously excavated to accommodate the knot, beside an ivory-inlaid rectangular reserve signed RYUSEI.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.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 wood netsuke by Ryukei, depicting an actor wearing a Buaku mask, which is carved from coral, along with a karako, 4.3 cm high, dated 19th century, illustrated in Zacke (1985) Netsuke und Inro aus Japan, no. 9.(contrary to the prior lot description, this is actually by Ryusei and not by Ryukei)
Lot 174
AN AMUSING EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A MOXA CONTORTIONISTUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An amusingly crafted wood netsuke of a contorted man lying on his back, crossing his arms and legs, one foot touching a straw basket which he wears as a hat. The man is visibly in pain, his face twisted in a grimace. The cause is quickly revealed when turning the netsuke as six moxa pellets are inlaid in dark horn to his back. Natural himotoshi. The wood bearing a good patina.LENGTH 3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical surface wear.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy used to heat particular points of the body by using burning dried mugwort.Museum comparison:Compare to an ivory netsuke depicting the same subject in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), accession number M.91.250.130.
Lot 184
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.
Lot 185
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.
Lot 186
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.
Lot 187
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.
Lot 188
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.
Lot 189
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.
Lot 19
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.
Lot 190
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.
Lot 191
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.
Lot 194
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.
Lot 196
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.
Lot 198
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.
Lot 199
A RARE SHIBAYAMA-INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A CAPARISONED ELEPHANTUnsigned Japan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryFinely carved with a caparisoned elephant standing foursquare on a quadrilobed oval base, the animal well detailed with narrowed eyes, a long curled trunk, curved tusks, long ears, and subtly carved wrinkles, the saddlecloth incised with a peony design within a cross-hatched border, suspending beads inlaid with coral and pale horn, the elephant's forehead similarly decorated with coral and pale beads surrounding a larger central jewel in mother-of-pearl, the base with a central ojime.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.The subject of the present netsuke with Shibayama inlay is considerably rarer in wood than it is in ivory. Auction comparison: Compare a related inlaid ivory netsuke, signed Shibayama, 4.2 cm long, dated late 19th century, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 189 (sold for 3,792 EUR).
Lot 2
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.
Lot 202
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.
Lot 204
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.
Lot 207
JUGYOKU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A CICADABy Ryukosai Jugyoku, signed Jugyoku 壽玉 with kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely and naturalistically carved as a cicada, its wings with neatly detailed veins, the underside with further realistic details such as the limbs which are kept close to the body for compactness. Large himotoshi underneath, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot and signed under the left wing within a neatly inlaid plaque JUGYOKU and kakihan.LENGTH 5.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.Literature comparison:For an ivory netsuke of a cicada on a leaf, by Jugyoku, see Harris, Victor (1987) The Hull Grundy Collection in the British Museum, p. 93, no. 457.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.
Lot 21
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.
Lot 218
OUCHI GYOKUSO: A MASTERFUL STAINED AND LACQUERED WOOD NETSUKE OF A GROUP OF CUCUMBERSBy Ouchi Gyokuso (1879-1944), signed Gyokuso玉藻 to 刀Japan, Tokyo, early 20th centuryPublished: Bushell, Raymond (1971) Collector's Netsuke, p. 155, no. 261.Kobijutsu Rokusho vol. 27 (1991), 62.Sagemonoya (1998) So School Netsuke, no. 91.Naturalistically carved, stained green with black lacquered pimples, as three pickled cucumbers overlapping one another, above an edamame bean pod which forms the cord attachment and houses the signature GYOKUSO to [carved by Gyokuso]. The carving is superbly finished and polished in all the right areas, as is typical for the artist – a true miniature masterpiece.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond and Frances Bushell. Ex-collection Bluette H. Kirchhoff, sold at Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2048 (sold for 9,150 USD).Ouchi Gyokuso (1879-1944) was the father of Ouchi Sosui (1911-1966) and together with Morita Soko (1879-1942) the most important pupil of Miyazaki Joso (1835-1910), the founder of the important So school in Tokyo.Literature comparison:There appears to be only two other netsuke recorded depicting cucumbers by the So school. Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke depicting cucumbers, by Morita Soko, illustrated in Sagemonoya (1998) So School Netsuke, no. 90. Also compare to a closely related lacquered wood netsuke depicting cucumbers and an eggplant, by Morita Soko, illustrated in Bushell, Raymond Netsuke (1975) Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 169, no. 439.
Lot 22
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.
Lot 223
KOKU: A STAG ANTLER KNIFE HANDLE IN THE FORM OF A MONKEY WITH A LOTUS CLOAKBy a follower of Ozaki Kokusai (1853-1892), sealed Koku 谷Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa, late 19th centuryThe netsuke sized handle exquisitely carved as a tanuki-like monkey seated on a circular platform rising from a lotus blossom, wearing a large worm-eaten lotus leaf as a cloak over its back and head, the simian's fur neatly incised and darkly stained, its face well detailed with round eyes and the mouth wide open revealing tongue and teeth, the back carved with the seal KOKU.HEIGHT 6.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, natural imperfections.While the Koku seal is perfectly cut and the overall quality is indicative of this grand artist, the carving is a little too refined for Ozaki Kokusai, a more likely artist being a close follower such as Hoshunsai Masayuki.Literature comparison:Compare a related stag antler box and cover by Kokusai, with similarly carved lotus petals and leaf, also sealed Koku, illustrated in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. II, p. 322-323, no. 252. Compare also two stag antler netsuke of stylized bats with similarly incised fur and eyes, attributed to Masayuki, illustrated in ibid., vol. III, p. 78-81, nos. 375-376.Auction comparison:Compare a related stag antler netsuke of a kappa ningyo, attributed to Ozaki Kokusai but more likely by Masayuki, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 2 November 2019, Vienna, lot 253 (sold for EUR 21,488). Compare also an ivory netsuke of a cat in a kimono by Masayuki at Lempertz, Netsuke aus der Sammlung Albert Brockhaus, 27 June 2020, Cologne, lot 529 (sold for 18,750 EUR).
Lot 228
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.
Lot 233
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.
Lot 239
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.
Lot 247
CHIKUSAI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE DEPICTING THE HEAD OF A DOGBy Chikusai, signed Chikusai 竹齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid to late 19th centuryPublished: Bushell, Raymond (1985), Netsuke Masks, pl. 304.Well carved in the round, the eyes double-inlaid with pale and dark horn, the fur finely incised, the floppy ears relaxed, the mouth and eyes conveying a pleading look, trying to gain the viewer's sympathy. The underside with a horizontally pierced himotoshi bar, signed CHIKUSAI.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, old restoration to one eye. Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond Bushell. Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam.Netsuke depicting dog heads are rare, and are possibly inspired by European carvings and models, such as dog-shaped silver stirrup cups or figural walking sticks.Literature comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke depicting the head of a dog, signed Ishikawa Komei, also formerly in the collection of Raymond Bushell, illustrated in Bushell, Raymond Netsuke (1975) Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 218, no. 698, and later sold at Christie's, The Raymond and Frances Bushell Collection of Netsuke Part II, 18 October 1988, London, lot 270, where it is noted to be “[p]robably a copy of a European ivory carving”.
Lot 249
OKATOMO: A VERY RARE EBONY WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF AN OLD MAN (JO)By Yamaguchi Okatomo, signed Okatomo 岡友Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Powerfully carved, the narrowed eyes with incised and raised lids, the furrowed brows well carved and sparingly incised, the mouth slightly open in a subtle smile showing teeth, the long mustache and chin beard neatly incised, the chin beard continuing to the reverse up to the himotoshi bar and forming part of the cord channel, the bar signed OKATOMO.HEIGHT 5.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few tiny nicks.The Noh masks that served as the inspiration for the present netsuke and others like it were fitted with natural hair (usually horsehair) to indicate the mustache and beard, and sometimes also the eyebrows. The ingenious detail of the beard leading up to the himotoshi bar and forming part of the cord channel is thus a departure of the usual mode of adhering closely to the actual Noh mask that was copied in miniature by the carver.The term Jo denotes a large corpus of indigenous masks that portray old men. These masks were worn, and still are, for a myriad of agrarian fertility rituals, rites for propitiating the gods of nature, and ceremonies associated with folk festivals. They usually represent an aged deity or an apotheosized elder. In the early days of Noh, there was only a single type of Jo mask which satisfied the need for any play requiring the role of an old man, but as new plays were written there was an increasing need for a variety of masks.Literature comparison:Mask netsuke by Okatomo are extremely rare. The only recorded example is an ivory netsuke of the face of oiwa as a lantern ghost, illustrated in Harris, Victor (1987) The Hull Grundy Collection in the British Museum, p. 36, no. 92.
Lot 261
HOKEI: A MASTERFUL TSUISHU (RED LACQUER) MASK NETSUKE OF A SHOJOBy Matsuki Hokei, signed Hokei 宝桂Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Published: Hurtig, Bernard (1973) Masterpieces of Netsuke Art: One Thousand Favorites of Leading Collectors, p. 212, no. 899.Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 162, no. 485.Exquisitely and comically modeled with the face creased into a grimace as he stares upward with round eyes and recessed pupils, framed by long flowing hair with neatly incised strands, the mustache similarly incised, the various layers of lacquer clearly delineated and the reverse lacquered black save for the red-lacquered edges and himotoshi bar signed HOKEI.HEIGHT 5.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear to lacquer. Provenance: Ex-collection E. Evelyn Barron. Ex-collection Mark T. Hindson. Sotheby's, The M. T. Hindson Collection of Important Japanese Works of Art, Part VIII (Final), London, 20 October 1969, lot 253. Ex-collection Edward A. Wrangham, acquired from the above. Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art Part II, 10 May 2011, London, lot 98 (sold for GBP 4,800). Ex-collection Robert Fleischel, acquired from the above. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.Shojo is used exclusively for the play Shojo (The Dancing Orangutan). Despite the name, the mask is that of a smiling youth, certainly not an ape at all. The distinguishing feature of Shojo is his overall reddish color, the color which symbolizes the drunkard. This crucial feature to the mask obviously lends itself well to the medium of carved red lacquer. The present mask netsuke, however, presents Shojo in a rather unique way, with a distinctive grimace instead of the usual smile.Matsuki Hokei was perhaps the most famous and certainly one of the finest workers in tsuishu (carved red lacquer). His figures in this material are comparable to the finest wood and ivory Netsuke, the various layers of lacquer used to denote highlights in some cases. The work is always well-finished. He taught several pupils whose work was similar but lacking the finesse of the master. See Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 161.Literature comparison: Compare a related tsuishu mask netsuke of a grimacing male mask, 4.8 cm high, dated 19th century, illustrated in Eskenazi (1998) Japanese netsuke, ojime and inro from a private European collection, p. 63, no. 66.Auction comparison:Compare to a related tsuishu mask netsuke of a tengu, by Somin, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 283 (sold for 9,150 EUR).
Lot 27
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.
Lot 272
A RARE AND UNUSUAL INLAID AND LACQUERED WOOD NETSUKE OF DAIKOKUUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryDepicting the lucky god seated, holding and marveling at a large two-pronged daikon (radish), the hands and vegetable inlaid in marine ivory, his iron-inlaid face with an amusing expression, the eyes of gilt. Some details such as his cap and the patterns on his robe are lacquered in gold kinji takamaki-e. The underside with large and generously excavated himotoshi.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Good condition, minor expected wear to lacquer. Structurally inherent crackling to the lacquer around the iron-inlay.Provenance: Austrian private collection, purchased from Max Rutherston Ltd., London.
Lot 29
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.
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