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3 Skulpturen mit Tänzerinnen1) Demétre Chiparus, "Tänzerin von Kapurthala", "D.H. Chiparus" auf der Oberseite des Sockels eingeritzt, möglicherweise posthum in Handarbeit hergestellte Bronzeskulptur auf Marmorsockel, Kopf aus Elfenbein-Imitat (Resin), Gesamthöhe 33 cm, Bein nahezu unsichtbar repariert. - 2) Josef Lorenzl, um 1930, Bronzefigur einer Art-déco-Tänzerin, signiert "Lorenzl", auf Sockel aus grünem Onyx, Höhe 20 cm. - 3) Hutschenreuther-Porzellanfigur, "Das Meisterpaar", um 1950, Entwurf: Carl Werner, Tanzpaar auf Sockel, glasiert, Sockel signiert "C. Werner", Höhe 27 cm. Start Price: EUR 280 Zustand: (2-3/-)3 Figures of Dancers1) Demétre Chiparus, "Dancer of Kapurthala", possibly posthumously handcrafted bronze figure with simulated ivory (resin) head, on marble base incised "D.H. Chiparus", total height 13 in., leg almost imperceptibly repaired. - 2) Josef Lorenzl, c. 1930, bronze figure of a nude Art-Deco dancer, signed "Lorenzl", on green onyx base, height 7 4/5 in. - 3) Hutschenreuther porcelain group, "The Master Couple", c. 1950, designed by Carl Werner, base signed "C. Werner", height 10 ½ in. Start Price: EUR 280 Condition: (2-3/-)

Persian rug with central floral medallion surrounded by flower heads on an ivory field with floral borders together with rug on blue Dimensions: Height: 140cm  Length/Width: 215cm 

French empire design armchair, the mahogany cresting rail with gilt metal mounts over seat and back upholstered in striped ivory fabric, raised on square tapering supports

19th century wingback armchair upholstered in ivory fabric, raised on square tapering supports, terminating in brass castors

A RARE WALRUS TUSK RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A SNAKE AND SKULLUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, late 19th centuryCarved in openwork with a coiled snake writhing around a skull, both nestled in an old straw hat amid bamboo leaves. The natural himotoshi cleverly incorporated through the worm-eaten hat.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear. xxProvenance: European collection.Memento mori (Latin for 'remember that you will die') is an artistic and symbolic reminder of the inevitability of death. Altogether sobering, and in some sense comforting, it's an epitaph for the masses – commoners and kings alike. Such art, which already appeared in ancient cultures, is also associated with festivals in remembrance and honor of the deceased, as held by many peoples throughout the world.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.

OTOMAN: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF AN ONI WITH THE ARM OF THE RASHOMON DEMONBy Matsushita Otoman, unsignedJapan, Hakata, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as an oni balancing on one leg and carrying the large, severed arm of the demon of Rashomon, its mouth agape with a triumphant expression, dressed in a loin cloth tied at the waist, the body and arm finely engraved with hair. Generously excavated himotoshi through the back and under the arm. The lightly stained ivory bearing a fine patina.The netsuke is unsigned, however clearly by the hand of the master carver Matsushita Otoman. The typical expression with opened mouth, staining, and incised hair is an exact match to the signed examples by Otoman. The present netsuke appears to be the only example (signed and unsigned) where the oni is standing, rather than leaning against the severed arm.HEIGHT 7 cmCondition: Very good condition, appealingly worn, few natural age cracks. Fine, unctuous, honey-yellow patina.Provenance: French private collection.The world of demons went into deep despair after Watanabe no Tsuna severed Rashomon's arm in the year 976. This event is parodied in netsuke art, as it really was only a 'drop in the ocean'.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of an oni with the severed arm of the Rashomon demon, attributed to Otoman, in Barry Davies, Netsuke Classics, no. 62 (fig. 1). Another closely related ivory netsuke, signed Otoman, was sold by the reputed London dealer Max Rutherston, former stock number MR2621 (fig. 2).Auction comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke of a lamenting oni with the severed arm of the Rashomon demon, unsigned however clearly by the hand of Otoman, was sold at Quinn's Auction Galleries, The Mang Collection of Japanese Art, 7 June 2012, Falls Church, lot 529 (sold for hammer price 12,000 USD) (fig. 3).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306452/20).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.

TOMOTADA: A RARE AND IMPORTANT IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNIN WITH HIS TOADBy Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Hurtig, Bernard (1973) Masterpieces of Netsuke Art: One Thousand Favorites of Leading Collectors, p. 150, no. 604.Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 376, no. 1129.Hurtig, Bernhard (1975) What's New at the Auctions, INCS Journal Vol. 4, No. 2, p. 43, lot 140.Hurtig, Bernhard (1980) What's New at the Auctions, INCS Journal Vol. 8, No. 1, p. 11, lot 14.Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 912.Superbly and sensitively carved, more naturalistic and less angular than many of this carver's contemporaries in Kyoto, depicting a youthful Gama Sennin seated in a relaxed pose and holding his three-legged toad in one hand, the toad touching his rotund belly, the underside well carved and with one generously excavated himotoshi, the other himotoshi to the lower back next to the signature TOMOTADA within a rectangular reserve.The sennin wearing a loose-fitting robe with finely incised patterned hem and foliate designs as well as neatly rendered folds, and adorned with the characteristic leafy skirt and apron, his hair elegantly falling in strands over the back and shoulders, his face with a cheerful expression, the eyes inlaid with dark horn, the mouth agape, the toad with subtly stippled skin.LENGTH 4.3 cm, HEIGHT 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear, expected minor age cracks. Fine, smooth, warm patina.Provenance: Ex-collection J. A. Fairley. Ex-collection Mark T. Hindson. Sotheby's, 25 November 1969, London, lot 756. Ex-collection Martin S. Newstead, acquired from the above. Sotheby's, 18 November 1974, London, lot 140 (sold for 2,900 GBP). Sotheby's, 29 May 1980, London, lot 14 (sold for 7,805 GBP). Van Ham, Asiatische Kunst, 7 December 2017, Cologne, lot 2246 (sold for 10,965 EUR).Mentioned in the Soken Kisho, Tomotada is perhaps the most renowned and certainly the most copied of all netsuke artists. His models were chiefly animal subjects and depictions of human or legendary figures are rare. The Soken Kisho notes that he carved oxen and that his work was copied in his own lifetime. In his card index, Meinertzhagen wrote of this piece, “An original example of this celebrated master's work. The signature is in harmony and is characteristic. The piece can be confidently accepted as genuine by this master.”Additional Note: It has been suggested that this netsuke should be attributed to Yamaguchi Okatomo, the star pupil of Tomotada. The present lot compares favorably to an ivory netsuke of a shaggy dog, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 2 November 2019, Vienna, lot 144 (sold for 15,168 EUR). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0248).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 SHISHI BALLUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a shishi curled into a ball, clutching a brocade ball with all paws and snarling, its open mouth containing a further loose ball. The face and mane finely incised, its eyes inlaid in dark horn. Natural himotoshi through the mouth.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minuscule nibbling to exposed areas, a fine age crack to the left paw.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a shishi ball at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November, London, lot 8 (sold for 2,125 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0487). 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.

YASUAKI: A FINE TOKYO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A BOY IN SHISHIMAI COSTUMEBy Yasuaki (Homei), signed Yasuaki 保明 with seal Kodama 見玉Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)The boy seated wearing a Shishimai costume with a large lion's head, the lower jaw hinged and openable revealing the boy's minutely carved face with jovial expression. The mask has large eyes inlaid in mother-of-pearl with dark pupils, bushy brows, large floppy ears, and a neatly carved mane which is traditionally made from strips of paper. A humorous kyogen mask is nestled into the green-stained cowl just below the jaw, looking up towards the boy. The elaborately carved robe is further embellished with patterns inlaid in amber and mother-of-pearl. Signed underneath next to the ringed himotoshi YASUAKI with a red-lacquered seal Kodama.HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear, one tiny inlay is lost.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.The Shishimai festival was imported from China during the Tang dynasty and is celebrated during the New Year to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0476). 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.

MITSUYUKI: A SUPERB AND RARE IVORY MASK NETSUKE OF THE FEMALE GHOST OIWABy Mitsuyuki, signed Mitsuyuki 光之Japan, second half of 19th centuryPublished:Bushell, Raymond (1985) Netsuke Masks, p. 63, no. 261.Bushell, Raymond Netsuke (1975) Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 145, no. 307.Bulletin Franco Japonais, no. 143, Masques Extraordinaires, January 2020, p. 20, no. 33.Finely carved and stained to depict the female ghost Oiwa, recognizable by her drooping and bloody eye, her stray hairs which are falling out and the loose teeth, all effects of the poisoning by her husband Tamiya Iemon. She has a hemorrhage above her eye simulated by fine stippling and the visible eye is double-inlaid in mother-of-pearl and dark horn. The backside with himotoshi and signature MITSUYUKI.HEIGHT 4.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond Bushell sold in his sale at Sotheby's London, 21 March 2000, lot 305. Then purchased from Rosemary Bandini during the Miami Kappa Convention (International Netsuke Collector's Convention) in 2007 by European collector P. Jacquesson.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.Literature comparison:For another mask netsuke by Mitsuyuki of Oiwa, though in wood, see Sagemonoya, Aji, Umami or Daigomi, 2017, no. 91.Auction comparison:Mitsuyuki was known for his extremely fine ivory mask netsuke, for another depicting a more common subject see Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2133 (sold for 2,318 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0521). 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 SNAKE PREYING ON A FROG, ATTRIBUTED TO MASATSUGUAttributed to Kaigyokusai Masatsugu (1813-1892), unsignedJapan, Osaka, c. 1850, Edo period (1615-1868)The ivory finely stained and depicting a large and densely coiled snake (hebi), forming a compact composition, with very precisely and realistically rendered details – almost frightening with its mouth wide open, showing teeth and a flickering tongue, the poor frog (kaeru) crushed by its body. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn. The depiction is an allusion to the sansukumi motif, meaning 'mutual control'. The snake will consume the frog, however there is a catch – the frog has already eaten a poisonous snail, so too the snake must perish. Natural himotoshi. Unsigned, however most likely an early work by Kaigyokusai Masatsugu or by one of his followers.HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and few age cracks. One plug to a nerve channel is lost.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison:For a closely related example of a snake and frog by Kaigyokusai Masatsugu, signed Masatsugu, see Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 24 November 2018, Vienna, lot 16 (sold for 13,904 EUR). Another closely related ivory netsuke of a snake preying on a monkey, by Kosai, was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, lot 85 (sold for 6,952 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0490). 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.

KOJU: AN AMUSING IVORY MANJU NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONIBy Koju (Mitsutoshi), signed Koju 光寿Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part ivory manju netsuke of circular shape and finely worked in shishiaibori (sunken relief), the details stained with sumi. The front showing the demon-queller Shoki seated behind an oni, placing one hand on the little devil's shoulder and lifting a small twig to tickle it, the demon in turn tensing up with excitement, a shallow bowl with small paper strips between them. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment within and signed KOJU with kakihan - a talented artist from the Hojitsu-line of manju makers.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear to the sumi-stained details. Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0515). 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.

EISHIN: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF BENTEN MASSAGING A NIOBy Eishin, signed Eishin 永眞Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryFinely carved and stained as Benten giving an acupuncture massage to a Nio, her right hand resting on his shoulder blade, the left hand holding a needle, the Nio with an amusingly tense expression leaning on the short table before him. The hair and details of the kimono finely incised. Two himotoshi underneath and signed EISHIN.HEIGHT 2.9 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few minuscule losses to exposed areas.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of Benten hand-wrestling with Nio by Hounsai, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 201.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0514). 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.

JITSUGA: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF MOMOTARO WITH COMPANIONS INSIDE A PEACHBy Jitsuga, signed Jitsuga 雅真Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryDepicting a peach, carved from two parts hinged together and openable, the lustrous exterior superbly polished and with neatly carved leafage, the inside revealing a densely carved and remarkably intricate depiction. Momotaro, the 'peach boy', is preparing with his companions, the dog, pheasant and monkey, to conquer Onigashima (island of ogres). The other side of the peach is carved in relief with a cart holding a banner and supplies. Signature JITSUGA on the underside of the stem, where the natural openings for himotoshi are present.HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.According to Miriam Kinsey in her book on contemporary netsuke, Jitsuga was the third master of the school of Hakumin of Edo. His style is certainly inspired by the great Osaka master Kaigyokusai Masatsugu and similar examples are attributed to or signed by members of the school of Kaiygokusai.Auction comparison:For two similar netsuke signed Kaigyokusai Masatsugu, see Bonhams, the Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, 10 May 2017, London, lot 28 (sold for 3,500 GBP), and Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 12 May 2009, London, lot 170 (sold for 3,600 GBP). Another netsuke by Jitsuga (erroneously described as Sanemasa, which is another reading for Jitsuga) was sold by Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 24 November 2018, Vienna, lot 153 (sold for 3,942 EUR). Furthermore, Jitsuga also appears to have provided carving for a snuff bottle, see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 12 May 2011, London, lot 268 (sold for 7,200 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0463). 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.

HOGYOKU: A LARGE IVORY MANJU OF EGUCHI NO KIMI AS FUGEN BOSATSUBy Hogyoku, signed Hogyoku 法玉 saku作 with kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of circular form, the two-part manju finely carved to one side in shishiaibori (sunken relief), stained and with details in sumi, depicting the courtesan seated on a recumbent elephant while reading a Buddhist scroll, beautifully coiffed, and dressed in a fine robe with elaborate floral design. The reverse with a Chinese table and censer with plumes of smoke arising from it, as well as two butterflies, and signed HOGYOKU saku with kakihan. The artist was a pupil of Meikeisai Hojitsu.DIAMETER 5.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, only very minor wear to the sumi-stained details. One small age crack to the side. Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. An inventory number '251.' to the interior.According to legend, Kimi was a courtesan in the village of Eguchi and was so devoted to Buddhist scripture that she became the incarnation of Fugen Bosatsu (Boddhisattva Samantabhadra). The imagery satirizes the Bodhisattva Fugen (Samantabhadra), whose mount is the elephant, by replacing the deity with a beautifully coiffed modern courtesan. Such a visual pun (mitate) was an artistic trope, popular in the Edo period.Auction comparison:Compare a near identical ivory manju of Eguchi no kimi as Fugen Bosatsu by Meijitsu, second half 19th century, at Lempertz, Netsuke-Sammlung Kolodotschko II, Cologne, lot 882 (sold for 1,736 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0462). 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 FUKUROKUJU WITH KARAKOUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The lucky god laughing jovially, with a large beard and thick pendulous earlobes, seated and leaning against a low table, a karako climbing up over his shoulder and touching his amusingly large head. The ivory is beautifully worn with a deep-yellow and honey patina. Large himotoshi to the back and underside.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Good condition with expected age cracks and associated surface wear, some minor and old, scattered chips.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, acquired in 1988.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0457). 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.

KOKOKU: A FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A RESTING ACTORBy Kokoku, signed Kokoku 光谷Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centurySeated, holding a shallow bowl before him, a finely carved marine ivory Buaku mask moved to the side of his head, revealing his joyful expression, his robe of two-toned woods and embellished with various inlays of stained ivory, tortoiseshell, copper, silver, and gold depicting viny gourds and swirling designs. The hands, feet, face, and bowl are carved from ivory. Two himotoshi underneath next to the signature KOKOKU with gold square seal Kokoku. The artist belonged to the Tokoku school and along with Egawa Sokoku excelled in the use of various different materials.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 10 November 2011, London, lot 63 (sold for 1,625 GBP). Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, acquired from the above. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0485). 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: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF THREE ONI AT SETSUBUNBy Ikkosai, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and lightly stained, depicting three oni being pelted with beans during the Setsubun festival. One oni is lying on its side grabbing its head, the face distorted with pain, while another tries to shield a scrambling young oni from the onslaught of beans, which are inlaid in gilt brass throughout the carving. Natural himotoshi and signed IKKOSAI on the largest oni's loincloth.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear, fine patina.Provenance: German private collection.Setsubun is celebrated during the first day of spring, or the end of the new year in Edo period Japan, and includes the rite of oni-yarai or mame-maki, where roasted beans are thrown at oni to rid the coming year of any demons and disease-bringing spirits.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.

YASUAKI: A FINE TOKYO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A YOUNG BOY WEARING AN EBOSHIBy Yasuaki (Homei), signed Yasuaki 保明 with seal Kodama 見玉Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)The boy seated and holding his legs together in a charming posture, his face radiating with joy as he smiles with his mouth slightly opened, showing the upper row of teeth. He wears an amusingly large eboshi (courtly hat) and a sleeveless jacket, both dyed with polychrome pigments and embellished with inlays of green-stained bone, horn, and mother-of-pearl. Two horn-ringed himotoshi to the underside and signed YASUAKI (Homei) with an inlaid mother-of-pearl seal Kodama.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear. A tiny chip to the front of the hat.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke of a boy by Yasuaki was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 242 (sold for 6,952 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0475). 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 FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A CLAM SHELL WITH INLAID AOIAttributed to Ohara Mitsuhiro (1810-1875), signed Mitsuhiro 光廣 with seal Ohara大原Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved from a pale piece of ivory, beautifully and lightly stained, the top of the clam inlaid in malachite and dark buffalo horn, depicting a sprig of aoi (hollyhock), the leaves finely engraved. The himotoshi lined in horn, signed in neatly incised characters MITSUHIRO and with inked square seal Ohara. A simple, yet perfectly executed design.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, few natural age cracks. Fine polish.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory manju netsuke with inlays, signed Mitsuhiro with seal Ohara, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 12 November 2015, London, lot 66 (sold for 4,000 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308337/20).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.

CHIKUYOSAI TOMOCHIKA: A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGONBy Chikuyosai Tomochika I, signed Tomochika 友親Japan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A remarkably strong and finely carved wood netsuke, brilliantly worked in sukashibori (openwork) as a dragon curled in tight loops and forming a compact composition with its horned head at the top, grasping a tama in its claw, the scales finely incised, the eyes inlaid in dark horn. The well-toned wood is beautifully worn, time has softened every edge, to the point one's fingers glide over its surfaces with delight. Signed underneath on an oval bridge reserve – TOMOCHIKA – the bridge also forming the natural himotoshi.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear. Warm, dark patina.Provenance: British private collection.Chikuyosai Tomochika, who moved to Edo and founded one of the most prolific studios, is said to have begun his carving life in Kyoto, possibly under the tutelage of Okatomo. His dragons in particular have a distinct Kyoto style.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a coiled dragon by Chikuyosai Tomochika, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 104 (sold for 3,000 GBP).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

RANTEI: A VERY RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF KADORI MYOJIN WITH NAMAZUBy Hogen Rantei, signed Rantei 蘭亭 Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A large and compact netsuke depicting Kadori Myojin clambering atop a namazu trying to calm its movements by pressing down its head with a hyotan (double gourd), wearing only a fundoshi (loincloth), the man's legs wide apart, his muscular body finely outlined, their eyes inlaid. Generously excavated himotoshi underneath, signed in the typical manner of the artist in sosho (cursive script) RANTEI. LENGTH 6 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor surface wear, a minuscule chip to one gill. Provenance: European collection. Wood netsuke by Rantei, who earned the honorary Buddhist title of Hogen during his lifetime, are rare, his favored medium for netsuke being ivory. Furthermore, the present subject seems to be unrecorded. Legend has it that certain types of catfish (namazu) are responsible for the earthquakes that plague the islands of Japan. When aroused, these creatures would contort their bodies in such a way that gigantic tremors shook the area for miles and miles. The Shinto deity Kadori Myojin usually attempts to prevent such catastrophe with the help of his magic gourd. Literature comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a man with blowfish by Rantei, note the closely related facial features, illustrated in Arakawa, Hirokazu, The Go Collection of Netsuke. Tokyo National Museum, 1983, p.84-85, no. 150.

KO: A FINE WALRUS TUSK RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH EGRET AND LOTUSBy Ko, signed Ko 幸Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, second half of 19th centuryVery finely carved in imitation of stag antler, the porous sections purposely carved to simulate worm rot on the leaves, depicting a white egret descending amongst lotus flowers and leaves. The reverse with a central himotoshi and signed within an oval reserve in a single seal character KO – which literally means happiness and luck.DIAMETER 4.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Old German private collection, remnants of an old collection label to the reverse.Literature comparison:The artist is not to be confused with the ryusa manju netsuke maker who frequently used metal inlays. For another ryusa netsuke depicting bat and reishi by this rare artist see Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. III, no. 497.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 KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A TIGER WITH CUBUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A remarkably powerful and superbly carved ivory netsuke of a tiger placing one paw protectively on its young cub which attempts to climb up on the adult's side somewhat half-heartedly. The adult tiger's thick tail curls around its body, terminating underneath the cub, while the cub's tail curls around the parent's left front paw, forming a compact and pleasingly tactile composition. What really sets this netsuke apart, however, is the gorgeous, lustrous honey-yellow patina, clearly being handled lovingly by several generations, the tiger's fur coat markings and hairwork heavily worn down, though still clearly visible in the crevices and at irregular intervals throughout the carving. The underside shows the superbly carved, chubby paws and the large, generously excavated himotoshi, tucked away underneath the adult tiger's belly.LENGTH 4.7 cm, HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good, undamaged condition. The heavily worn ivory bearing a stunning patina.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, purchased in 1993.The netsuke is unsigned, however can be confidently attributed to the hand of Tomotada, but it is our opinion that this netsuke requires neither signature nor attribution and stands strongly very much by itself.The tiger (tora) is the third animal of the Asian zodiac and represents courage, resilience, and strength. It also plays an important role in Daoist philosophy providing a counterpoint to the dragon (tatsu). The tiger is not native to Japan; therefore, images of tigers were only known from Chinese paintings or on rare occasions when the tiger's fur was imported into Japan. This brings to mind a Japanese proverb - "When the tiger dies, he leaves his skin, the man his name".Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke by Tomotada sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 53 (sold for 37,920 EUR). Another closely related ivory netsuke by Tomotada was sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 19 March 2013, New York, lot 2140 (sold for 31,250 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0452). 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.

MITSUO: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF ASAHINA SABURO AND TWO ONI ENGAGED IN KUBIHIKI (NECK WRESTLING)By Mitsuo, signed Mitsuo 光雄 with seal Mitsu 光Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as Asahina Saburo, the legendary warrior known for his prowess and superhuman strength, dressed in typical attire, his robe adorned with crane mon-crests, engaged in a neck-wrestling match with two oni. Asahina is smiling confidently and barely straining, as the two oni are struggling, their muscular limbs pulling at the rope and their faces distorted with exertion. A saucer filled to the brim with sake is between them, likely providing the fuel for this contest of strength. Natural himotoshi and signed within an oval reserve underneath MITSUO with seal Mitsu.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0508). 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 EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF SHOJO WITH HUGE SAKE JARUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The Shojo leaning on a large barrel filled up to the brim with sake, a ladle and in her left hand and a sake cup in her right. Note the finely carved hair falling over her shoulders. Himotoshi through the leg and the barrel. Beautiful, deep honey patina.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, a tiny chip to one toe on the right foot, natural age cracks, fine honey-yellow patina.Provenance: Old German private collection.A Shojo (猩々) is a Japanese sea spirit with similarities to a ghost but differing to the latter in the fact that Shojo are tangible. It enjoys drinking alcohol, especially sake. Legend has it that workers at breweries in Japan have seen Shojo lurking about after indulging in their products.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0533). 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.

ONO RYOMIN: AN AMUSING IVORY MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING 'THE REVENGE OF THE MONKEY'By Ono Ryomin, signed Ono Ryomin 小野陵民 and kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part ivory manju netsuke finely stained and neatly polished, worked in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with stained sumi details, the front showing a human-sized monkey (saru) wearing a mugwort leaf skirt, an attribute of the magical mountain hermits known as sennin, pulling at the collar of a sarumawashi (monkey trainer), the latter with an agonized expression, scrambling and flailing with his arms, his food basket toppled over, and his taming stick visible in the background. The reverse shows another sarumawashi, evidently aware of his companion's demise, cowering and attempting to flee the scene. Large, central himotoshi, the cord attachment within, and signed to the back ONO RYOMIN and kakihan.DIAMETER 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition. The interior lining chipped.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0461). 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.

GARAKU: A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF AN OX WITH OXHERDBy Risuke Garaku, signed Tomotada 友忠Japan, Osaka, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a recumbent ox with a young oxherd, the boy dressed in an elaborately decorated robe, holding the rope halter of the ox as he tries to clamber onto its back. The ox with curled horns, piebald fur, and inlaid eyes. Generously excavated himotoshi through the underside and signed Tomotada in an oban-shaped reserve.The work is stylistically quite clearly that of Risuke Garaku, the oban-shaped signature reserve being also characteristic of the artist. It is not uncommon that the works of Garaku and Tomotada are signed interchangeably, indicating that these artists must have worked together at some point in time.LENGTH 6.4 cmCondition: One foot, one horn, and a section of one ear are restored to near invisibility. Otherwise, fine condition with typical wear and age cracks. Presents beautifully.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of an ox with oxherd by Garaku, at Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art, Part IV, 6 November 2013, London, lot 60 (sold for 4,375 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308329/20).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 ROARING SHISHI WITH CUBUnsignedJapan, Osaka, ca. 1780-1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2006) More Things in Heaven and Earth, p. 66, no. 25 (as a comparative example).The shishi (Buddhist lion) sits upright on its haunches lifting both front paws, its mouth wide opened showing teeth and tongue, the ambiguous lion-like expression somewhere between a fearsome roar and self-mocking amusement. A minutely carved lion cub sits beneath, lifting one paw somewhat hesitantly, trying to copy its parent. The ribs are well rendered, and the vertebrae of the spine are neatly articulated. The beautifully carved bushy tail and curling mane are stained with sumi. One himotoshi to the base, the other between the base and bushy tail. The ivory bearing a superb patina.HEIGHT 3.5 cm, LENGTH 3.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition, with only very minor wear to stained details, one age crack to the body.Provenance: Sydney L. Moss Ltd., London, ex-collection June Schuerch, acquired from the above.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shishi climbing a dead tree, with similar expression and features, also unsigned, illustrated in Hurtig, Bernard (1973) Masterpieces of Netsuke Art: One Thousand Favorites of Leading Collectors, p. 156, no. 642.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke, undoubtedly carved by the same hand, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 65 (sold for 22,140 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0522). 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.

A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMANUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The proudly standing Dutchman wearing a European hat and lozenge wig, holding the legs of a boar which is slung over his back, the fur of the limp creature neatly incised. The Dutchman's coat is finely stippled and engraved with crashing wave designs on the hem. The back bearing a stunning honey-yellow patina and with two generously excavated himotoshi placed at an angle and formed by one larger and one smaller hole.HEIGHT 9.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear and few natural age cracks.Literature comparison:The carver is familiar from the very distinctive sharp and dramatically undercut chin, as well as the style of decoration to the coat. For a similar example, see the catalog of the H.G. Beasley collection, Sotheby's, 14th March 1984, London, lot 87, illustrated in color on p. 43. Another is illustrated in Eskenazi Ltd. (1993) Japanese Netsuke from the Carré Collection, no. 1, and illustrated on the cover of the catalog.Auction comparison:For a closely related ivory netsuke, likely carved by the same hand, of slightly larger size (10.1 cm) see Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 5 (sold for 20,856 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0524). 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.

TOMOCHIKA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF AN EAGLE SNATCHING A FOXBy a member of the Tomochika school, signed Tomochika 友親Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely carved and stained ivory netsuke of an eagle firmly grasping a helpless fox in its talons. The reverent bird of prey has a fierce expression, its head is slightly tilted downwards, and its beak is opened. The feather-work of the eagle is executed with great precision. Natural himotoshi and the signature in a wavy reserve on the underside of the fox TOMOCHIKA.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 29.100.796 (together with an inro).Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke by Tomochika at Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art Part IV, 6 November 2013, London, lot 61 (sold for 1,625 GBP), and another by Shokyusai at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 228 (sold for 2,275 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0470). 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.

TOMOMASA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A BATHING ONIBy Tomomasa, signed Tomomasa 友正Japan, Edo/Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryFinely carved and stained, depicting an oni seated in a shallow basket filled with water and washing himself with a towel. The devil has long curly hair and small, sharp horns and is grinning, showing his sharp teeth and fangs. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn. The underside with the oni's tiger skin loincloth and the two himotoshi, one larger than the other, as well as the signature TOMOMASA within a red-lacquered plaque.HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: The right foot restored. Otherwise, good condition with few natural age cracks and minor wear. Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke by Kihodo Masaka, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, Vienna, lot 261 (sold for 5,913 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0467). 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.

ICHIYU: AN IVORY MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING MARINE LIFEBy Ichiyu (Kazutake), signed Ichiyu 一勇Japan, second half of 19th centuryOf circular form, the two-piece manju finely carved in relief, depicting marine life, including a flounder with inlaid eyes, two shells, one fish inlaid in patinated shibuichi, and with neatly incised seagrasses. The reverse signed ICHIYU within a wavy reserve next to the central himotoshi.DIAMETER 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear to the surface of the metal-inlay.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Old collection number pasted to the interior.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0505). 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.

FUKU: A SUPERB GOLD-INLAID RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING KAPPA AND LOTUSSigned Fuku 福Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, late 19th centuryPublished: Moss, Sydney L. (2016) Kokusai The Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. II, pp. 254-255, no. 489.The ryusa manju very finely carved in openwork from a choice section of pale walrus tusk as a large, crumpled lotus leaf with several stems and buds, a further leaf in the center surrounded by scrolling tendrils, upon which two kappa are inlaid, one of them in gold and the other in bekko, the latter scooping water with a cup while the other gazes at him with a rather confused expression. The superbly carved back shows further lotus blossoms, scrolling tendrils, and a fish with gold eye emerging from a gap. With a central himotoshi and sunken relief seal in a raised square reserve – FUKU (luck or happiness).DIAMETER 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection June Schuerch. With Sydney Moss Ltd., French private collection, acquired from the above.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.

IKKO: A FINE BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A GROUP OF RATS EATING EDAMAMEBy Ikko, signed Ikko 一光Japan, late 19th centuryComprising one large rat seated and eating while one offspring sits on its haunches on a smooth edamame bean pod, a second rat climbing over its back, their eyes inlaid, the fur and tail finely incised. Natural himotoshi through the trailing tail, signed underneath the bean pod IKKO.HEIGHT 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.Provenance: German private collection.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of three rats by Ikko, with inlaid eyes, late 19th century, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 17 May 2018, London, lot 17 (sold for 1,750 GBP). Compare a related ivory netsuke-okimono of a group of rats by Ikko, late 19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16th April 2021, lot 222 (sold for 5,688 EUR).

A RARE KYOTO SCHOOL NARWHAL TUSK NETSUKE OF A WEASEL ON A ROCKUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, late 18th – early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved from a triangular section of the tusk, depicting a weasel (itachi) with neatly incised fur, holding a fruiting berry branch between its front paws, the large eyes inlaid in lustrous dark horn, and the bushy tail sweeping down the rock on which it sits. Two large himotoshi to the back. The underside shows the characteristic striations of this beautifully polished material.LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear and natural, material-typical age cracks.Provenance: Old German private collection.The present piece belongs to a coveted group of netsuke carved from narwhal tusk and depicting animals in the Kyoto style. This workshop clearly excelled in the use of this rare and expensive material.Museum comparison:Compare to a closely related narwhal tusk netsuke from the same workshop, depicting a goat on a rock, in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET), New York, accession no. 10.211.38. According to the online listing the netsuke is signed Rantei, however no signature is visible on the images provided.Literature comparison:Also compare to an ivory netsuke of a weasel (itachi), Osaka school, illustrated in Rutherston & Bandini, The Sheila M. Baker Collection of Japanese Netsuke and Inro, no. 38.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.

TOKOKU: A STUNNING WALRUS TUSK RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH MAGNOLIA AND MOONBy Suzuki Tokoku (1846-1913), sealed Bairyu 楳立Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, c. 1860-1880Of uneven circular form, partially carved in openwork as misty clouds, blossoms and buds of a towering magnolia tree emerging from within the gaps, all in the presence of a highly polished benevolent full moon. The reverse with further blossoms and buds, the two himotoshi formed by one oval and one circular aperture, the exterior neatly ringed, and the inlaid gold signature BAIRYU. An early work by this celebrated artist. The use of the material is masterful and shows the true genius of Tokoku - the typical milky inclusions of the walrus tusk are used to emulate the fluffy cloud structure, while the pure, lustrous areas of the material are used for the moon and magnolia, which give them a remarkable three-dimensional effect.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.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.

AKIHIDE: A FINE CONTEMPORARY INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA TRAPPING A NAMAZUBy Akira Kawahara (Akihide, born 1934), signed Akihide 明秀Japan, Tokyo, c. 1980The kappa hunching over a straw basket, one eye and one whisker of a namazu visible through a tear near the bottom and the rest of the earthquake fish visible below. The details, such as the kappa's warty skin and long hair, are finely carved. The subject is a clever mitate on the Shoki and oni theme, where the oni traps Shoki underneath a basket, however here the kappa and namazu are depicted, who tend to play a similar cat and mouse game. The kappa's carapace is neatly inlaid with highly polished, stained tortoiseshell, and the eyes of both are double inlaid in amber with dark pupils. Natural himotoshi and signed AKIHIDE within a slightly raised, rectangular reserve underneath.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Purchased from Michael Bernstein, New York.Akihide (actual name Akira Kawahara) was born 1934 in Tokyo. He learned carving as a teenager from his uncle who was an okimono carver. He is versatile in any material and has received high acclaim for his inlay work using highly-polished tortoiseshell. Literature comparison:Two closely related wood netsuke of kappa by Akihide are illustrated in Kinsey Miriam, Carver's Workshops at the INCS Convention III, International Netsuke Collectors Society Journal (INCSJ), vol.7, no. 4, p. 49, nos. 14 & 17.Museum comparison:A closely related wood netsuke of a kappa with child by Akihide is in the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, accession no. 2007.016.038.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.

YOSHIMASA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEIBy Yoshimasa, signed Yoshimasa 吉正Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of large triangular section, Hotei seated, his right arm resting on his treasure bag and holding an uchiwa (fan), the left hand on his knee, dressed in a loose robe revealing his potbelly, the robe engraved with details of clouds and formalized waves. His face with a joyful expression framed by pendulous earlobes, the eyes inlaid in dark buffalo horn. Large himotoshi through the base and back, signed YOSHIMASA in a rectangular reserve.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks. Fine, honey-yellow patina.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of Hotei by Yoshitomo, at Christie's, An Important European Collection of Netsuke, 14 November 2001, London, lot 68 (sold for 10,575 GBP). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308335/20).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.

HOGYOKU: A RARE MARINE TOOTH NETSUKE OF A SARUMAWASHI WITH TWO MONKEYSBy Hogyoku, signed Hogyoku 宝玉Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a sarumawashi (monkey trainer) standing and handing a fruit to one monkey, another monkey finishing its snack visible in the back. The sarumawashi with a gentle smile, wearing a well-carved voluminous robe, holding a small drum, and with a tobacco pouch tied to his waist. The back with two himotoshi and signed HOGYOKU.HEIGHT 5.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.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 IVORY NETSUKE OF A STREET VENDORUnsigned Japan, c. 1790, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sydney L. Moss (2010) They are all fire and every one doth shine. The Elly Nordskog Collection of Japanese Inro, Pipecases and Netsuke, London, pp. 408-409, no. 143.Superbly carved in a spirited and animated manner that is uncommon for the sankaku-type netsuke, possessing a good depth and plasticity, depicting a merchant or peddler turning in mid-step as he walks, his left hand obscured by his loose-fitting robe with neatly incised folds, holding a bunch of dried fruits with his right, carrying a straw bundle with a flowering prunus branch attached over his shoulder, his finely rendered face with a cheerful expression marked by a wide smile and upturned eyes, one himotoshi to the back, the other ingeniously carved through the robe beside the man's crossed legs.HEIGHT 7.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear, traces of use, expected age cracks. Fine, cream-colored patina to the back.Provenance: Ex-collection Elinor “Elly” Nordskog (1919-2013).This charming depiction, full of action and character, is one which derives from a fairly prolific and so far anonymous artist – or more likely workshop – in the late eighteenth century. The milky-white ivory and the concern with surface and line indicate they were based in or close to Osaka, and their figures are of medium rather than outsize scale and always smile. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0254).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 OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A CROUCHING TIGERUnsignedJapan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Zacke (1989), Netsuke von Meistern, no. 44.Boldly carved and deeply stained, with particular attention devoted to the fur coat of alternating stripes and circles against the neatly incised fur. The bulky creature does its very best to look fierce, its head turned back, the eyes inlaid, the animal about to snarl with sharp fangs showing at the corners of the mouth. The thick tail curls over the back and the massive, chubby paws are firmly pressed against the ground. Small himotoshi underneath, the cord channel generously excavated. A compact and pleasingly tactile ivory netsuke bearing a fine patina.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear and expected age cracks. Fine patina. Natural nerve channels are brilliantly incorporated into the design forming part of the tiger's fur coat.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, purchased from Galerie Gemini in 1990.The tiger (tora) is the third animal of the Asian zodiac and represents courage, resilience, and strength. It also plays an important role in Daoist philosophy providing a counterpoint to the dragon (tatsu). The tiger is not native to Japan; therefore, images of tigers were only known from Chinese paintings or on rare occasions when the tiger's fur was imported into Japan. This brings to mind a Japanese proverb - "When the tiger dies, he leaves his skin, the man his name".Auction comparison:For a closely related ivory netsuke see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 22 March 2022, New York, lot 3019 (sold for 4,636 USD). Another closely related ivory netsuke was sold at Lempertz, Asian Art, 27 June 2020, Cologne, lot 329 (sold for 4,000 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0454). 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: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO MONKEYS FIGHTING AN OCTOPUSBy 'Saru' Ikkosai, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved, partially in sukashibori (openwork), depicting two monkeys and an octopus engaged in a vicious fight, the octopus writhing its tentacles around the monkeys, the simians struggling to compete. The bulging eyes of the octopus are inlaid in dark horn and the hairwork of the monkeys is finely incised providing an appealing contrast to the smooth, tactile texture of the octopus's slippery skin. Many options for 'natural' himotoshi due to the openworked and dynamic nature of the piece, one of the tentacles with the signature IKKOSAI to the underside.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor surface wear.Provenance: Old German private collection.'Saru' Ikkosai carved several of these, each one distinctly different, however. As opposed to the closely related netsuke sold at Lempertz on 7 June 2019, our monkeys are clearly losing the fight, the octopus having them completely entangled in its tentacles.The subject of monkeys fighting an octopus references a legend in which the octopus-physician of Ryujin, the Dragon King of the Sea, prescribes a monkey's liver to heal the king's daughter.For a detailed discussion of the artist see INSJ Vol. 39, no. 3, Fall 2019, pp. 29-34.Auction comparison:Compare with a closely related ivory netsuke by Ikkosai, depicting an octopus fighting two monkeys, at Lempertz, Japanische Kunst, 7 June 2019, Cologne, lot 426 (sold for 7,192 EUR). Compare with another closely related ivory netsuke by Ikkosai, depicting a monkey fighting an octopus, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 202 (sold for 7,584 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0529). 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 EXQUISITE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DIVING GIRL (AMA)UnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An exquisite ivory netsuke depicting a diving/fisher girl (ama) with an elaborate hairstyle holding an awabi shell in one hand before her body, the other holding a strand of her hair. Her finely inked hair is parted in the middle, revealing her sensually sculpted, supple breasts, and her back. Her straw skirt resembles a minogame's tail and is, like her hair, treated with sumi ink. Her facial features are crafted sensitively; she has plump, full cheeks, her eyes are cast downwards, and she wears a gentle smile. She lifts one foot ever so slightly, lending movement to the composition. The ivory is beautifully worn with spots of honey patina. Large, asymmetrical, and generously excavated himotoshi to the reverse.This is certainly one of the finest and most characterful netsuke depicting an ama.HEIGHT 7.4 cmCondition: Very good condition. The ivory slightly worn with few expected age cracks. The right foot with an old worn-down chip and a tiny restoration to one toe.Provenance: Sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 28 (sold for 9,480 EUR). A private collection, acquired from the above.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0561). 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 FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH CANDLEBy Masatami, signed Masatami 正民Japan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved from a choice piece of pure-white ivory, lightly stained, depicting a rat with large inlaid eyes of dark horn and beautifully incised fur, scratching itself with its right hind paw and holding onto a candle with both front paws. The unusually long and well-carved tail curls around and underneath the rodent's body forming the natural himotoshi. Signed within a neatly polished reserve underneath MASATAMI.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear and few natural age cracks.Provenance: Old German private collection.Literature comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke of a rat with candle by Masatami was exhibited during the 4th INS convention, Honolulu, 1981 and illustrated in the International Netsuke Collectors Society Journal (INCSJ), vol.9, no. 2, p. 38, no. 44.Auction comparison:Compare to an 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-0536). 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.

TOMOMASA: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF RAKAN HANDAKA SONJA CONJURING A DRAGONBy Tomomasa, signed Tomomasa 友正Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Handaka Sonja dramatically holding his alms bowl aloft, a dragon emerging from it and clawing its way down the rakan's back, its body sinuously twisting, coiling around to the front and roaring obediently at its master, the dragon's eyes inlaid in dark horn. Handaka Sonja in turn pets the dragon on its head, and looks somewhat smugly, his majestic dragon-conjuring feat apparently not causing him any great effort. The ivory is lightly stained, and the details are superbly carved. Handaka Sonja's voluminous robe is dynamically swaying in the wind, his exposed muscular arms and rib cage are powerfully sculpted. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath the robe TOMOMASA. The lightly stained ivory slightly rubbed and bearing a fine patina.HEIGHT 6.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor associated surface wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Tomomasa is probably best known for his idiosyncratic netsuke depicting oni. The present netsuke is unusually powerful and large for the artist.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0465). 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.

YOSHIKAZU: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A QUIAL PERCHED ON MILLETBy Yoshikazu, signed Yoshikazu 良一Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a quail perched on two large heads of leafy millet, one of the leaves forming the himotoshi underneath and housing the signature YOSHIKAZU. The bird with neatly incised plumage and minutely inlaid eyes of dark horn. Beautiful, deep-yellow patina.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Old German private collection.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a quail and millet by Yoshikazu, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 2, p. 881.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of two quails on a millet by Okatomo, late 18th-early 19th century, at Bonhams, Asian Decorative Arts, 22 March 2016, San Francisco, lot 9448 (sold 3,500 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0532). 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 TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A FOX PRIEST (HAKUZOSU)UnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Standing almost completely enveloped in a priest's robe, a large cowl draped over its head, the two ears visible through the cloth at the top, the face with a sly expression and slightly opened mouth showing teeth, its human hands leaning against a long cane. Large, generously excavated himotoshi through the back. Beautiful, deep honey-yellow patina.HEIGHT 9.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with expected age cracks.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, purchased in 1993.Hakuzosu is the name of a popular kitsune character who shapeshifted into a priest in the Kyogen play Tsurigitsune. Kitsune are creatures imbued with magical powers and are known to have the ability to shapeshift. They are also believed to be animated by the devils.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0453). 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.

TOMOTADA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT OX AND CALFSchool of Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠Japan, Kyoto, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A deeply stained, pleasingly worn rendition of the Tomotada ox and calf motif, depicting the ox reclining with its young nestled beside it, the calf gently licking the ox's side. The fur is finely incised and stained, the ox's pupils are of dark horn, carefully inlaid to give life to its expression. Deep-yellow patina, especially to the underside which houses the generously hollowed-out and asymmetrical himotoshi, as well as the signature TOMOTADA within a typical rectangular reserve.LENGTH 6.3 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks. Fine honey-brown patina.Provenance: Old German private collection.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a recumbent ox and calf, Kyoto school, 18th-19th century, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 20 March 2012, New York, lot 2094 (sold for 2,750 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0531). 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 LARGE IVORY MANJU OF ONIWAKAMARU SLAYING THE GIANT CARPBy Shuyusai Minkoku (Minkoku II), signed Minkoku 民谷Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of circular form, the thick manju finely carved in shishiaibori (sunken relief) and painted in sumi (ink) with Oniwakamaru about to slay the giant carp with his knife. The eye pupil of the carp inlaid in black horn with a metal rim. The reverse depicting a waterfall gushing from rocks and signed MINKOKU.DIAMETER 5.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks, minuscule nicks, and light surface scratches, fine honey-golden patina.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Oniwakamaru or 'young devil child' was the nickname given to the young warrior monk Musashibo Benkei (1155-1189) because of his enormous strength and violent nature. This netsuke shows the young boy attacking and slaying the giant red carp that swallowed his mother.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory manju netsuke depicting Oniwakamaru slaying the giant carp, at Lempertz, Netsuke-Sammlung Kolodotschko II, 6 December 2014, Cologne, lot 879 (sold for 2,852 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0507). 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 FINE IVORY OKIMONO NETSUKE OF AN EMACIATED RAT CATCHERUnsignedJapan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Very finely carved as a disappointed rat catcher, dressed only in a loincloth, kneeling and holding down a box, looking backwards as the escaped rat which clambers over his back. His expression is masterfully worked, brilliantly capturing his anger and disappointment, while at the same time vilifying him. Note the extremely well carved bony fingers and toes, as well as the muscular and emaciated body. The pupils of both are inlaid in pale horn. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4.4 cm, LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with some expected age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:A closely related okimono is illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art (1990) Netsuke Classics, no. 16.Museum comparison:Compare a related ivory okimono netsuke of a rat catcher, dated 19th century, in the Victoria and Albert Museum, accession number 529-1904.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory okimono netsuke of a rat catcher by Kihodo Masakazu was sold at Zacke, Fine Japanese and Netsuke Art, 22 June 2019, Vienna, lot 317 (sold for 5,056 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0492). 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 RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF THE SAMBIKI SARU (THREE WISE MONKEYS)By Masatami (Shomin), signed Masatami 正民Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved and stained, depicting the three wise monkeys (hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil) arranged in a compact circle, covering each other's mouth, ears, or eyes. The facial expressions are executed in the typical manner of the artist with small squinty eyes painted with black sumi and minutely inlaid pupils of dark horn. The hairwork is neatly incised. Note the superbly carved bony fingers. The underside with the signature MASATAMI in a typical rectangular reserve and the natural himotoshi through one of the monkey's legs.LENGTH 3 cm, HEIGHT 2.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor surface wear. Provenance: Italian private collection.Monkeys are a favorite subject of Masatami, his treatment of them being idiosyncratic and imbued with a healthy portion of humor and wit. The subject of the sambiki saru is rare for the artist, with no other examples recorded in literature.Auction comparison:Compare to an ivory netsuke of two monkeys, by Masatami, sold at Christie's, The Japanese Aesthetic, 15 May 2013, London, lot 420 (sold for 3,250 GBP).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 AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF A NAKED MAN TYING HIS FUNDOSHIUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The naked man visibly struggling, his face amusingly contorted as he ties his loin cloth too tightly, thereby nipping him in a tender spot, one hand holding the cloth in place to the front and the other grabbing the other end to the back. His back subtly incised showing the ribs and spine. The wood of an appealing color with a good patina. One leg is slightly lifted, lending movement to the composition, yet the netsuke stands perfectly as the endpiece of the towel supports it. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 7.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: British collection.Literature comparison:This model is rather uncommon in wood, a related netsuke in ivory is in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, formerly in the Bushell collection, accession no. 91.250.167.Auction comparison:Compare a related marine ivory netsuke of a naked man, 19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, lot 255 (sold for 3,286 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI ON MOKUGYOUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, second half of 19th centuryA cleverly carved composition depicting a shishi (Buddhist lion) nestled up close to a mokugyo (temple bell), its long tail trailing down the handle, which like the shishi's tail, terminates into finely carved curls. The front is engraved with a large bonji character, saku, underneath a finely etched cross-etched pattern, also found on the reverse. The backside with a central himotoshi. The finely stained ivory bearing a deep, lustrous patina.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, some fine age cracks. Tiny, old chip to the himotoshi.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:Compare to a related netsuke in Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan', Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., 2016, no. 352, unsigned but attributed to Rensai, using the same bonji character saku. The present netsuke also shows some similarities to Rensai's work.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke by Hoshunsai Masayuki, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 2 November 2019, Vienna, lot 250 (sold for 2,148 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0484). 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 FUKUROKUJU AND KARAKOUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and stained, depicting the long-bearded lucky god Fukurokuju with a scroll in his hands, a Chinese boy hiding behind him, the lucky god wearing a finely engraved robe incised with a diapered pattern, his amusingly large head covered by a cowl with brocade design, his joyous face flanked by pendulous earlobes. 'Chimney himotoshi' through the back and underneath the robe.HEIGHT 5.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks, fine honey-yellow patina.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Fukurokuju (福禄寿) is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology. It has been theorized that he is a Japanese assimilation of the Chinese Three Star Gods (Fu Lu Shou) embodied in one deity. Similar in appearance to the Chinese star god Shou, he symbolizes wisdom and longevity.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0488). 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 FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A MYRIAD OF SHELLSUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A densely carved group of various shells, conches and clams of different shapes and sizes, worked in superb sukashi-bori (openwork), two of the shells with a minutely detailed landscape within referencing the 'clam's dream'. The lightly stained ivory bearing a superb patina, particularly to the underside which is warm and honey-yellow. The cord attachment is formed by a small trumpet conch underneath. Unsigned, but similar examples exist by both Gyokuhosai Ryuchin and Mitani Goho.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear. Fine patina.Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke by Gyokuhosai Ryuchin was sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 13 September 2011, New York, lot 2012 (sold for 1,750 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0555). 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 AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF A TIGERUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the tiger seated on a rectangular base in a guardian-like posture, its face with an amusing gesture as if suddenly come to life. The tiger's fur coat is remarkably well preserved for this type of early netsuke. Natural himotoshi, as well as one pierced aperture to the underside. Beautiful deep-yellow patina.HEIGHT 4.5 cmCondition: Good condition with expected age cracks and associated surface wear, some natural flaws to the material.Provenance: Ex-collection Marcel Lorber (1900-1986), sold at Zacke, Ausstellung 1990, no. 115. Old Viennese private collection, acquired from the above.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0458). 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.

KAGETOSHI: A SMALL IVORY NETSUKE OF URASHIMA TARO ON A TURTLEBy Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi景利Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An intricately reticulated ivory netsuke by Kagetoshi, who became famous for his masterful use of sukashi-bori (openwork). Depicted is Urashima Taro riding a minogame (turtle), with cascades of foaming seawater crashing over them, holding a jewel box in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. The turtle on which he sits is actually Otohime, the daughter of Ryujin, the dragon kami of the sea. The eyes of the minogame inlaid in reddish horn. Florally rimmed himotoshi and signature KAGETOSHI in a rectangular reserve on the underside.HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, few minuscule losses to edges, some fine age cracks. The sumi-stained details worn.According to legend Urashima Taro saved a little minogame (straw-raincoat turtle) from an ill fate, which subsequently turned out to be the daughter of the dragon king. The next day a giant turtle appeared and brought Urashima to the underwater palace of the dragon god. Urashima stayed there for a few days and received a box and was told not to open it. When he returned, everyone he knew was gone and everything had changed, so in his bewilderment he opened the box and suddenly turned into an old man. He then heard a whisper from the sea telling him he was told not to open the box, in it was his old age…Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of Urashima Taro by Kagetoshi, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, London, 10 May 2017, lot 32 (sold for 2,500 GBP). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308331/20).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 EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A DANCING KITSUNEUnsignedJapan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as a kitsune (fox), standing on one foot, its forepaws raised as it dances, the tail turned upwards. Excellent, generously excavated himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 8.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, some wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.In Chinese and Japanese mythology the fox is one of several animals set on doing evil to mankind. In this it is partly aided by supernatural and demonic powers, which allow it to shapeshift, more often than not into a woman, young or old. It is omniscient and capable of taking possession of its human victims. There are many different Japanese folk tales associated with foxes. In the present netsuke the fox is probably caught in mid-transformation into a seductress.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.