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KIKUGAWA RYUKOKU: AN INLAID IVORY MANJU NETSUKE OF A TENNINBy Kikugawa Ryukoku, signed Kikugawa Ryukoku saku 菊川流谷作Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of circular form, the thick manju netsuke finely carved in shishiaibori with a graceful tennin (apsara) floating in the milky-white ivory sky, one hand holding a lotus form scepter, draped in an ornate robe decorated with finely incised scrolling motifs, adorned with a wind charm pendant inlaid with mother-of-pearl, malachite, gilt metal, and coral. The reserve with scrolling clouds in relief against a thatched ground. The cord attachment through the eyelet peg housed inside the central himotoshi. Signed to the back within a raised reserve KIKUGAWA RYUKOKU saku [made by Kikugawa Ryukoku].DIAMETER 6.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected surface wear.Provenance: From an Italian private collection, the back with a label Inscribed with an inventory number, 'F 231.'Literature comparison:For a closely related ivory manju netsuke of a tennin flying with a lotus flower in her right hand, by Kikugawa Ryukoku, see Coullery, Marie-Therese / Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, p. 83, C 105.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number IT/CE/2023/BG/01089). 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 BONE OJIME OF THE FUKURA SUZUMEJapan, 19th centuryThe fat sparrow depicted in its classic form with short stubby wings, its tail lifted, looking up with its beak open. The central cord tunnel through the chest of the bird.LENGTH 2.4 cmCondition: Good condition with wear and a small chip to the cord tunnel.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory ojime of a sparrow, illustrated in Sagemonoya (2002) Netsuke, Ojime & Masatoshi's Kabuki, p. 62, no. 191.

NICK LAMB: ONI AT SETSUBUNBy Nick Lamb (b. 1948), signed with the artist's markUnited Kingdom, 2012Well carved as a muscular oni running to escape from those pelting him with soybeans, holding a large straw hat over his back and head, the clawed hands and feet clutching the brim tightly. The mouth agape in an agonized expression showing teeth and sharp fangs, all below bulging eyes under thick brows. Few beans inlaid in coral, emerald, and obsidian scattered to the top. Natural himotoshi and signed with the artist's mark on an 18k gold lozenge-shaped reserve.LENGTH 5.5 cmCondition: Very good condition. Two beans replaced.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Nick Lamb (b. 1948) is one of only a few non-Japanese netsuke carvers. Over the past three decades, he has built a reputation as being among the finest living practitioners of the art form and is known for his meticulous, graceful carvings, typically of animals. His work was exhibited in several museums, such as the British Museum, and became part of many important private and public collections, including that of the Imperial Family of Japan, the Robin Lehman Collection, the Robert O. Kinsey Collection, and the Tokyo National Museum.The design takes inspiration from an image featured in Raymond Bushell's "Collectors Netsuke," created by the artist Shoko during the twentieth century

SUZUKI KOSAI: AN INLAID IVORY MANJU NETSUKE OF A RAKANBy Suzuki Kosai, signed Suzuki Kosai 寿々木孝斎 with kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part manju netsuke finely carved in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with an image of a meditative rakan bearing a powerfully crafted, stern-faced expression with gold lacquered eyes, holding a hossu (Buddhist fly whisk), and wearing an elaborate set of earrings inlaid in metal, coral, malachite, and mother-of-pearl, all framed by a halo. The reverse is finely incised with a nyoi sceptre and a scroll. Central himotoshi through the back, the cord attachment within, and signed SUZUKI KOSAI with the artist's kakihan.DIAMETER 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear. One tiny nick to the interior rim.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related inlaid ivory manju netsuke of a rakan, by the same artist, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures (LNIA), Vol. 1, p. 670.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0066). 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 METAL-INLAID ANTLER RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE REFERENCING THE TEN OX HERDING PICTURESUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, second half of the 19th centuryFinely carved in openwork with a central bronze-inlaid herdsman pulling his large animal along by a rope. The background carved with large, gnarled paulownia branches bearing leaves beside bellflower blossoms borne on leafy stems. The reverse featuring superbly carved petals on vines curling around a central floret. The central himotoshi ringed in bone.DIAMETER 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, slight tarnishing to the metal inlay, and natural flaws. Provenance: From an old private collection in North Rhine-Westphalia.The auspicious scene depicted here relates to the Ten Ox Herding Pictures and the Zen Buddhist parable of enlightenment regarding the ox and ox herder. This parable is most famously portrayed in the series of paintings (originally only eight) accompanied by a series of short poems by the 12th century poet Kakuan Shien. In the story, the oxherd is separated from his ox. In his search for the ox, the herdsman reconciles his fundamental identity with the ultimate reality which transcends all distinctions. The oxherd symbolizes the self, who initially identifies with the individuated ego, separate from the ox, but who is progressively enlightened during his search. The ox symbolizes the ultimate, undivided reality, the Buddha-nature, which is the ground of all existence.

KOKEISAI SANSHO: A SUPERB PALE BOXWOOD MASK NETSUKE OF HANNYABy Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936), signed with the artist's kakihanJapan, Osaka, early 20th centuryExpressively carved from pale and lightly stained boxwood to depict the vengeful demon with her mouth wide open, baring her minutely carved, sharp teeth and fangs. The grotesque face with bulging veins detailed with hollowed pupils on bulging eyes, a broad and prominent nose with pierced nostrils, and a strong, protruding chin. The masterfully carved face accentuated in some areas, particularly to the pronounced forehead and cheeks, is surmounted by a pair of separately carved, curled horns. The reverse with a central himotoshi bar and signed with the characteristic kakihan of Kokeisai Sansho.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Dr. Walter Heihs, sold at Sotheby's, 17 June 1998. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936) was a brilliant Osaka carver. His life and work are discussed by Boris Filatov in Kokeisai Sansho: Mystery of the Genius (Spring 2012) International Netsuke Society Journal, vol. 32, no. 1, p. 12-25.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood mask netsuke of a feline creature by the same artist, signed with the kakihan of Kokeisai Sansho, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 228 (sold for EUR 10,112).

HOSHUNSAI MASAYUKI: A SUPERB INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF AN ONI AT SETSUBUNBy Hoshunsai Masayuki, signed Masayuki 正之Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Expressively carved as a crouching oni hunched over a bag, trying to shield himself from the wrath of the crowds that pelt him with beans during the New Year, a total of five having hit their target, his clawed hands positioned to the naked back, massaging the pained area. The face masterfully carved with an agonized expression as the muscular oni bites his bottom lip, the brows furrowed, and forehead wrinkled. His simple garb is deceiving at first glance; as the oni likely attempted to camouflage himself, however, the headscarf is barely able to conceal his identity with his characteristic horns amusingly poking through. Himotoshi through the opening of the bag and signed underneath MASAYUKI.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear and an age crack to the bag underneath.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a smoking oni, by Masayuki, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 234 (sold for EUR 4,160).

MINKOKU III: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A TENNINBy Shuyusai Minkoku (Minkoku III), signed Minkoku 民谷Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The angelic maiden carved in flight with a charming smile, her neatly incised and stained hair elegantly arranged and held by a chrysanthemum tiara. She is holding a large lotus bud over her shoulder like a scepter. As she flies, her robe flutters in the wind, a soft scarf encircling her head and flowing back towards her feet. Her robe is neatly incised with floral and karakusa designs. Two pierced himotoshi and the signature within a rounded reserve MINKOKU underneath.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition, the inked details remarkably well preserved.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection.Literature comparison:For another example of the subject by Minkoku, see Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 519.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a tennin by Minkoku, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 155 (sold for EUR 5,056).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0097).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 BAMBOO AND ANTLER YATATE, WITH AN ANTLER NETSUKE OF A MONKEY HOLDING A PEACHUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryThe superb grain of the bamboo fudezutsu (portable writing brush container) clearly visible with five nodes cascading from long to short, the hinged cover carved from a section of antler near the coronet. With an antler netsuke depicting a seated monkey wearing a sleeveless coat, holding an oversized peach by the stem with a delighted expression.LENGTH 17 cm (the pipe case), LENGTH 3.5 cm (the netsuke)Condition: Each in very good condition with minor wear and expected 'natural flaws'.Provenance: From the collection of Dr. Ferdinand and Dr. Gudrun Thaler-Szulyovsky, and thence by descent in the same family. Purchased in 1993 from Galerie Gemini (H. Hohenadl). The couple, who had both been practicing law, met in 1967 through their mutual passion for art. Together they built a substantial and diverse art collection over many decades.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related bamboo and antler yatate illustrated in Moss, Paul. (2016) Kokusai The Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. III, Sydney L. Moss, p. 310-311, no. 522.

MASAHIRO: A FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY ON A PAIR OF CHESTNUTS By Masahiro, signed Masahiro 正廣Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)This charming composition with a monkey prostrating itself on two oversized chestnuts above a small hole where an inlaid maggot has burrowed into the nuts. The monkey looking bewildered waiting for the small insect, which extends and retracts, to rouse itself from its hole. The nuts are smoothly textured along the sides and the base is worked with a coarse patch realistically depicting where the cluster was attached to the cupule. Two asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed on an inlaid tablet MASAHIRO.HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Provenance: Glenk Berlin, 21 January 1899. Estate of Albert Brockhaus (1855-1921), acquired from the above. Lempertz Cologne, 27 June 2020, lot 506. German private collection, acquired from the above.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke monkey lying on two oversized chestnuts above a maggot by the same artist, signed Masahiro, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 703.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a monkey on two chestnuts with an inlaid maggot by the same artist, Ex Topper collection, signed Masahiro, at Christie's, Selected Netsuke, Ojime and Inro, 25 October 1984, London, lot 46.

KEIGETSU: A WOOD NETSUKE OF RATS ON A STRAW HATBy Keigetsu, signed Keigetsu 桂月Japan, second half of the 19th centuryFinely carved with three mischievous rats prancing about on an old, tattered straw hat (kasa). The three rodents carved naturalistically with finely incised fur and eyes inlaid in dark horn, one rat gnawing its way through a larger hole, its tail and foot laced with the long fasteners to the underside forming the cord attachment, trying to grab a smooth edamame pod from the hands of its companion. Natural himotoshi and signed to the underside within an inlaid tablet KEIGETSU.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. One crack with associated losses to the rim.

OZAKI KOKUSAI: A SUPERB ANTLER OBI-HASAMI NETSUKE DEPICTING A SHISHI-HEADED MONSTERBy Ozaki Kokusai (1835-1892), signed with the anchor seal of Kokusai which is heavily worn Japan, Shiba, Tokyo, c. 1860-1880The obi-hasami netsuke (made to be inserted into the obi/sash) carved as a peculiar mythical beast standing upright with long and slender anthropomorphic feet opening in the middle and joining at the bottom forming curls and two short upturned 'handle' arms. The head is carved as a stylized shishi with a curling mane and bushy brows, a reishi nose, inlaid eyes, and a grim expression. Two apertures at the corners of the mouth house a silk cord to which a small bone seal and a metal seal paste container is attached. The antler stained to an attractive caramel tone.HEIGHT 10.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition, few natural 'flaws' to the material as are to be expected.Provenance: Alain Ducros, Paris, October 1987. Ex-collection Guy de Lasteyrie, acquired from the above. De Lasteyrie is a member of the Lasteyrie du Saillant family and is considered among the leading French collectors of netsuke.The seal face of the carved miniature bone seal reads: Teraoka 寺岡, a common Japanese family name, indicating that this seal was for personal use. Literature comparison: Compare a closely related obi-hasami netsuke, also unsigned, in Eskenazi (1998) Japanese Netsuke, Ojime and Inro from a Private European Collection, p. 158-159, no. 194. Also compare a closely related obi-hasami netsuke by Ozaki Kokusai in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. II, pp. 258-259, no. 219. Also compare a closely related obi-hasami netsuke by Ozaki Kokusai, particularly note the similarily stylized features of the head, in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. II, pp. 254-255, no. 217.Auction comparison:Compare a related antler obi-hasami netsuke by Ozaki Kokusai at Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2035 (sold for USD 36,600).

MORITA SOKO: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE DEPICTING THREE ACTORSBy Morita Soko (1879-1942), signed Soko 藻己 to 刀Japan, Tokyo, early 20th centuryA remarkably detailed and finely stained ivory netsuke depicting a trio of masked actors, one seated holding out his arm as another grips his wrist while raising his left hand, the third half-kneeling behind, wearing a fox mask, and tempting the other two with a tokkuri (sake flask). The robes of each are finely detailed and inked with various motifs including brocade motifs, spiderwebs, and magical tama pearls. Natural himotoshi formed by the tangle of limbs and robes. Signed on a rectangular reserve SOKO to [carved by Soko].LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Morita Soko (1879-1942) was, together with Ouchi Gyokuso (1879-1944), the most important pupil of Miyazaki Joso (1835-1910), the founder of the important So school in Tokyo.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a fox dancer by Miyazaki Joso, illustrated in Hurtig, Bernard (1976) What's New at the Auctions, INCS 4/3, p. 9, no. 60.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke by the same artist of Nasakeji opening the treasure box, signed Soko to, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 243 (sold for EUR 9,150).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0075).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.

BUNCHO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EATING PERSIMMONSBy Buncho, signed Buncho 文蝶Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a monkey (saru) holding a leafy branch with two ripe persimmons, the simian biting into one, its upper lip and brows slightly arched as a result, producing an amusing expression. The hands of the monkey are neatly carved with well-articulated fingers. The wood is beautifully stained and the fur is neatly engraved. Natural himotoshi formed by the legs. Signed to the base of the second persimmon BUNCHO.HEIGHT 3.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and a few light surface scratches.Works by the artist Buncho are rare. For a few of the recorded netsuke by this artist see Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 310.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a seated monkey eating persimmons, signed Tomokazu, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 3 November 2023, Vienna, lot 208 (sold for EUR 2,600).

A FINE TSUISHU (CARVED RED LACQUER) MANJU NETSUKE WITH PEACH BLOSSOMSUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part manju netsuke executed in tsuishu (carved red lacquer) featuring an intricately worked, dense design of flowering and budding peach blossoms issuing leaves, all against a minutely incised asanoha ground, the reverse continuing the imagery. Central himotoshi through the back, the cord attachment in the form of a metal loop mounted to a peach blossom roundel to the interior which is lacquered black.DIAMETER 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear. Minor nibbling and hairlines along the rim. Tiny flaking to lacquered interior.Provenance: Galerie Zacke, Vienna, 1983. Private collection of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia (1921-2019), Switzerland, acquired from the above on 26 May 1983. A copy of the collector's notes, confirming the provenance above, and stating a purchase price of CHF 1,180.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related tsuishu manju netsuke with peach blossoms, illustrated in Coullery, Marie-Therese / Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, p. 277, C 817.

SHIGEMASA: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL ON BUCKETBy Shigemasa, signed Shigemasa 重正Japan, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved from a single block of wood and masterfully stained in various subtle tones. The snail slithers across an upturned bucket, its body arched (forming the himotoshi) over the edge of the bucket, its feelers extended. The finely polished shell is stained in two different colors, with stippling and minute incision work used to achieve the heterogenous surface of the shell as naturalistically as possible – to great effect! The mollusk's body and inside of the shell is worked with further minute stippling and even the pneumostome (breathing hole) is accounted for. The bucket, as well, is carved true to life, showing the various hues of the wood and grain. Signed on top of the bucket SHIGEMASA.HEIGHT 4.5 cmCondition: Repairs to two feelers and a section of the bucket, each repair executed very well. Otherwise good condition with minor expected wear. Provenance: Private collection of Edie Kurstin. Private collection of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia (1921-2019), Switzerland, acquired from the above in November of 1982 at a Netsuke symposium in Cologne, Germany. A copy of the collector's notes, confirming the provenance above and stating a purchase price of CHF 5,550 or approx. EUR 10,000 (converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing), accompanies this lot.While there are several variants of this netsuke by Shigemasa, this is certainly one of the finest by this artist who was known for his superior skill in staining. According to the collector's notes, a picture of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia was published in a Galerie Zacke newsletter with the caption: “Frau Heidi Haupt-Battaglia from Bern, who owns the most beautiful Shigemasa.”Museum comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a snail on a wood barrel, signed Shigemasa, in the British Museum, accession number 1948,1019.5, Published in Barker, Richard and Lawrence Smith (1976) Netsuke: the Miniature Sculpture of Japan, p. 175.Auction comparison:Compare closely related wood netsuke of a snail on a bucket, signed Shigemasa, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 120 (sold for EUR 8,216).

KAN: A CERAMIC AND LACQUER-INLAID WOOD TWO-CASE INRO WITH DARUMABy Ogawa Haritsu (Ritsuo, 1663-1747) or a follower, signed with two seals and Kan 観 and Shoko 尚行 (Naoyuki)Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of upright rectangular form and oval section, decorated in lacquer-enriched ceramic to depict Daruma meditating. The verso is decorated with a hossu (Buddhist fly whisk) and a mokugyo bell. Signed with two seals KAN and SHOKO (Naoyuki)—both seals were used by Ogawa Haritsu and his followers. The seal Shoko/Naoyuki seems to be predominantly found on this specific type of textured light wood netsuke and inro with ceramic inlays (see auction comparisons).HEIGHT 7.2 cm, LENGTH 6.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with wear and natural imperfections. One tiny chip to the corner near one of the cord holes.Provenance: Ex-collection of Drs. Edmund and Julia Lewis. Drs. Edmund Jean and Julia Breyer Lewis are renowned experts in nephrology who met professionally and later married in 1997, and have since continued to collect Japanese art together, actively seeking the best they could find from the finest dealers in the field. Known for their keen scholarship and high aesthetic standards, for the past three decades Ed and Julie have focused on collecting lacquer art, painting, and Buddhist sculpture from Japan.Auction comparison:Compare a related three-case lacquered and ceramic-inlaid wood inro depicting a caparisoned elephant, signed with the same seals Shoko/Naoyuki and Kan, by Ogawa Haritsu, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 274 (sold for GBP 10,000). Also compare a related ceramic-inlaid kiri wood netsuke depicting a recumbent deer, sealed Shoko/Naoyuki, at Sotheby's, The Carlo Monzino Collection of Netsuke, Inro and Lacquer, 21 June 1995, London, lot 341 (sold for GBP 920).

TADAKUNI: A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF SNAKE WINDING THROUGH A PUMPKINBy Tadakuni, signed Tadakuni 忠國Japan, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely detailed snake weaves its way in and out of rotting holes of a pumpkin, its tongue flickering as it rests its head on the top. The textures of the snake's scaly skin and the pumpkin's grooved surface are achieved with clever staining and carving. The pupils of the snake's eyes are inlaid in reddish horn. Two small himotoshi underneath. Signed within a rectangular reserve TADAKUNI in almost completely erased ukibori characters.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and two small nicks to the underside.Provenance: German private collection.Auction comparison:Compare a near-identical wood netsuke by the same artist of a snake emerging from a pumpkin, signed Tadakuni, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 102 (sold for EUR 6,500).

TOMOMASA: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A REPENTANT ONIBy Tomomasa, signed Tomomasa 友正Japan, Edo/Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryIntricately carved and stained as an oni holding two small mokugyo and beating them with a mallet. The demonic figure, now converted to Buddhism, is shown with his mouth opened, chanting a sutra, his fangs showing, the eyes inlaid. Dressed in shabby, ill-fitting garbs falling loosely on his muscular frame, the oni's long curly hair falling down his shoulders covered partially by a headscarf through which peer two horns, a parasol to his back, and suspending from his belt is a tabako-ire set with a double-gourd netsuke and a kiseruzutsu. The 'natural' himotoshi through the gap between the arm and mokugyo tassel. Signed to the underside of the robe TOMOMASA.HEIGHT 6.1 cmCondition: A small chip to one toe, and tiny smoothed chips to the tips of the horns, the base of the drumstick possibly with a tiny loss to the edge. Otherwise good condition with minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of an oni, depicted in a similar position and by Tomomasa, at Sotheby's, Netsuke, Inro, Lacquer, 6 November 1980, New York, lot 49.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0063).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE BRONZE NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TENGU (TENGU NO TOMAGO)UnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Cast in bronze and finely patinated and carved as a hatching tengu, its expression amusingly crafted with its tongue stretched out, the eyes opened wide, and wearing a tokin-cap. One foot is shown emerging from a larger crack in the shell. Two pierced himotoshi.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Overall very good condition. Some casting irregularities, minor dents, and minuscule nicks.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.

SHUMIN: A FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A DARUMA DOLLBy Hara Shumin, signed Shumin 舟民Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 777.A beautifully rounded and compact wood netsuke depicting a Daruma doll, shown almost completely enveloped in his robe, his face with an expressively carved, disgruntled expression, the wide eyes with horn inlays below furrowed bushy brows. The reverse carved with two rattles, the details of the children's toys finely incised and inlaid with stained bone. Generously excavated asymmetrical himotoshi to the oval base, the smaller hole lined in green-stained antler, and signed SHUMIN to the side.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear.Auction comparison: The present netsuke appears to be a rare variant of the typical seated Daruma by Shumin. For an example of a seated Daruma by Shumin, with similar expression and inlays, see Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 16 June 2023, Vienna, lot 290 (sold for EUR 2,080).

CHIKURIN: AN UNUSUAL IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT CATCHERBy Chikurin, signed Chikurin 竹林Japan, probably Edo (Tokyo), second half of 19th centuryLying prone, the master rat catcher resting his head lazily in his hand, wearing only a loin cloth, reaching back lackadaisically to grab the tail of a large rat, which attempts to sneak onto his back. His eyes look up and away as he releases a sigh of boredom, sporting a confident grin. Unlike depictions of other rat catchers, who are more often than not caricatured with agonized and frustrated expressions, this hero appears to be unchallenged by his task. The hair on his legs, chest, and the stubble on his chin as well as the rat's fur are neatly incised and inked. Asymmetrical himotoshi and signed to the underside CHIKURIN.LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor surface 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 24-B-0064). 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.

ICHIMISAI: A SUPERB AND LARGE WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF A DRAGON HEADBy Ichimisai, signed Ichimisai 一味斎Japan, Edo (Tokyo), late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bushell, Raymond (1985), Netsuke Masks, pl. 308.Boldly rendered, the beast carved in partial openwork with a long snout, staring straight ahead with hollowed pupils on bulging eyes, pierced flaring nostrils, open mouth revealing sharp fangs, the chin sprouting a short beard and the top of the head carved with two curled horns above large, funnel ears. Himotoshi through the central bar to the back and signed ICHIMISAI. The well-worn wood beautifully stained and polished.HEIGHT 6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond and Frances Bushell. Sotheby's, Netsuke from the Collection of Raymond and Frances Bushell, 18 November 1999, London, lot 152. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood mask netsuke of a hornless dragon, by Deme Uman, dated to the early 19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 290 (sold for EUR 7,320).

A WOOD NETSUKE OF BENKEI SLEEPING ON A CONCH (HORAGAI)UnsignedJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1612-1868)The oversized conch (horagai) naturalistically rendered with fine stippling and smooth and rough sections, bearing the weight of the exhausted Benkei who rests his tired head on his folded hands. Benkei is depicted in a typical manner, clothed in the robes of a yamabushi monk and wearing a tokin cap surmounted with a gilt metal stud. The conch is fitted with an antler and ebony wood mouthpiece. A well-hollowed himotoshi to the side exiting the mouth of the conch.LENGTH 6.2 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Horagai are large conch shells, usually from Charonia tritonis, that have been used as trumpets in Japan for many centuries. The instrument has served a number of purposes throughout Japanese history and special schools still teach students to play the traditional music associated with the conch. Unlike most shell trumpets from other parts of the world which produce only one pitch, the Japanese horagai can produce three or five different notes. The different pitches are achieved using a bronze or wooden mouthpiece attached to the apex of the shell's spire. At freezing temperatures (often encountered in the mountainous regions of Japan) the lips may freeze to the metal surface, so wooden or bamboo mouthpieces are used.The yamabushi were renegade mountain priests of the Shingon Tantric Buddhist sect, who used the conch to communicate their movements in the mountain wilderness.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of Benkei on a horagai, dated early 19th century, at Lempertz, Asian Art, 9 December 2022, Cologne, lot 462 (sold for EUR 3,276).

SARI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE DEPICTING A MISCHIEF OF RATSBy Sari, signed Sari 左里Japan, Iwashiro province, c. 1800-1820, Edo period (1615-1868)The large mischief of rats gathered in a pile, each with finely incised fur and depicted in various attitudes, their eyes inlaid in dark horn. The underside carved with a charming assortment of feet and tails, forming the natural himotoshi. Signed within a raised oval reserve SARI. LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related group of seven rats on beans by the same artist, signed Sari, Coullery, Marie-Therese / Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, p. 360-361, C 1146.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN AND MONKEYUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The Dutchman carved standing on his toes somewhat awkwardly as he cheekily looks to the left, holding the brim of his hat and a monkey close to his chest, as if he has stolen the simian. Good, functional himotoshi to the back; the ivory bearing a superb, yellowish patina.HEIGHT 7.3 cmCondition: Good condition with old wear and age cracks. Some rubbing and wear to incised details.Provenance: From the collection of Dr. Ferdinand and Dr. Gudrun Thaler-Szulyovsky, acquired at Galerie Zacke in 1988 for 19,000 Austrian Schillings, and thence by descent in the same family. The couple, who had both been practicing law, met in 1967 through their mutual passion for art. Together they built a substantial and diverse art collection over many decades.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.

ANDO RYOKUZAN: A FINE LACQUERED IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO CHESTNUTSBy Ando Ryokuzan (1885-1959), signed Ryokuzan 緑山Japan, Tokyo, c. 1920The two chestnuts masterfully stained and skillfully carved to deceive the eye (trompe-l'œil) as a pair of chestnuts, the ivory body coated in a clear lacquer finish to give the nuts its characteristic luster, and the top of the shell worked with a coarse patch realistically depicting where the cluster was attached to the cupule. Himotoshi to the base through the side and signed underneath RYOKUZAN.LENGTH 3.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minimal wear to the lacquer finish.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Known examples of Ryokuzan's chestnut are usually roasted or burnt, making the present netsuke a rare exception.Ando Ryokuzan (1885-1959) was born in Asakusa and is best known for creating superrealistic ivory carvings, painstakingly colored to suit the subject matter, using vegetables, fruits, plants, and animals as his subjects. However, little is known about his production activities, and it is said that his techniques and coloring methods were kept secret. He took no apprentices and worked alone, and his son did not take over the family business, therefore, his unique tusk carving and production techniques were likely cut off after only one generation.Literature comparison:For a closely related heavily stained and lacquered ivory chestnut netsuke, signed Ryokuzan, see INSJ, vol. 11, no. 2, p. 30.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0078).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.

TADAKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A WASP NEST WITH MOVABLE LARVAEBy Tadakazu (Chuichi), signed Tadakazu 忠一Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Naturalistically carved with four full-grown wasps tending to the hatching larvae, the nest finely textured with individual combs, some closed and others opened to reveal the bone-inlaid larvae, two of the larvae movable. The eyes of the grown wasps inlaid in dark horn, and two generously excavated himotoshi to the side, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot. Signed TADAKAZU on the side within a recessed oval reserve.LENGTH 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, one inlaid eye replaced.Provenance: Private collection in Germany, assembled between 1985 and 2007. Lempertz, Asian Art, 25 June 2021, Cologne, lot 864. German private collection, acquired from the above.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke depicting the same subject, by Tadakazu (Chuichi), at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 24 November 2018, Vienna, lot 123 (sold for EUR 3,792).

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF CHOKARO SENNINUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved as Chokaro sennin standing on one foot, the other resting against his ankle, his head raised straining against the weight of the large gourd shaped vessel (hyotan) resting on his shoulders and issuing a voluminous horse's tail which is withdrawing into the gourd. The immortal is dressed in an artemisia leaf robe, the bearded sennin with an amused expression as he grins a toothy smile, all whilst stroking the tail. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and through the sleeve. The ivory with a smooth naturally grown honey-yellow patina.HEIGHT 7.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and natural age cracks.Provenance: Malcolm Fairley, London. A British private collection, acquired from the above. French 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 22NL308317/20).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.

MASATOSHI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF KUMAGAI NAOZANE AND TAIRA ATSUMORI IN COMBATBy Masatoshi, signed Masatoshi 正利Japan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Dynamically carved with the two samurai in a tussle during the battle of Ichi-no-tani (1184), Kumagai no Jiro Naozane kneeling as he pushes his weight down to hold the young Taira no Atsumori flat against the ground, twisting his arm. Each dressed in an elaborately carved and incised suit of armor, the chest plate (do) of Atsumori with the Taira-clan swallowtail butterfly (agehacho) mon. Himotoshi to the underside and signed to Kumagai's skirt of plates (kusazuri) MASATOSHI.LENGTH 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear. An old, smoothened chip to one foot and some minuscule nibbling to edges.In The Tale of the Heike, during Yoshitsune's attack at Ichi-no-Tani, the Taira clan scattered. Kumagai no Jiro Naozane, scanning the beach, spotted young Atsumori swimming towards escaping vessels. Beckoning him with a fan, Kumagai taunted Atsumori for showing his back to the enemy. They grappled on the beach, and Kumagai, stronger, pinned him to the ground, knocking off his helmet; however, he was moved by the beauty of the young boy, the same age as his son. Kumagai, aware that other Minamoto warriors would likely kill him, decided to be the one to end Atsumori's life. In tears, he beheaded the youth, reasoning it was better if he killed Atsumori, because he could offer prayers on his behalf for his afterlife. It is said that the beheading of Atsumori is what led Kumagai to take priestly vows and become a Buddhist monk.

A LARGE AND UNUSUAL WOOD NETSUKE OF A TOADBy Masatomo, signed Masatomo 正友Japan, Nagoya, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Separately carved from two different types of wood, the rotund toad seated on its haunches on a double stump, its warty skin finely carved with remarkable ukibori pimples, the eyes inlaid in translucent pale horn with incised pupils. Two well-hollowed and asymmetrical himotoshi to the base. Signed MASATOMO within a rectangular reserve.LENGTH 5.2 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, two plugged natural knots in the wood, expected age cracks, tiny nicks to the underside from surface contact.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection.

AN IMPORTANT SET WITH TWELVE INRO DEPICTING THE JUNISHI (ZODIAC)The inro by Yamaguchi Shojosai, the ojime and netsuke by Shigeaki, each inro, ojime, and netsuke signed by the artistJapan, 20th centuryEach of the twelve inro in this complete set bears the artist signature of Yamaguchi Shojosai (1900-1978), also known under his artist name Rosho, on the underside of the lowest compartment. All twelve are four-case inro and show fine hira- and takamaki-e painting on gold, black and red lacquer grounds. Each inro has been carefully restringed and comes with its matching ivory netsuke and ojime, all dating from the early 20th century and signed Shigeaki in an oval, rectangular or gourd-shaped reserve.HEIGHT 9 cm (each inro)Condition: Superb condition with only very minor wear and traces of use. Some of the netsuke and ojime have old age cracks. An absolute rarity in this sublime and original state of preservation!Provenance: From an old and important British private collection. Christie's, Fine Inro from a Private Collection Part I, 15 March 1977, London, lots 91-102. Zacke, Fine Japanese and Netsuke Art, 22 June 2019, Vienna, lot 129 (sold for EUR 35,392). A private collection, acquired from the above.Yamaguchi Shojosai was a remarkable lacquerer who worked in various studios in Tokyo, Kyoto and Niigata. He contracted polio when he was four years old and used a crutch for walking from then on. He began his lacquer studies when he was 14 and devoted his life to working with lacquer and to his family. Following the death of his wife in 1952, two of his sons became lacquer craftsmen.In this precious and extremely rare set the artist has precisely captured the individual characters of the portrayed animals, therewith masterfully highlighting the various virtues coming with each zodiac sign.The Japanese Zodiac, referred to as Junishi, comprises the following twelve animals: rat (nezumi), ox (ushi), tiger (tora), rabbit (usagi), goat (hitsuji), horse (uma), snake (hebi), dragon (tatsu), monkey (saru), rooster (tori), dog (inu) and boar (inoshishi).Auction comparison:Compare a closely related four-case inro with a design of monkeys, by Yamaguchi Shojosai, at Bonhams, The Last Treasures from the Edward Wrangham Collection, 19 July 2021, London, lot 142 (sold for GBP 3,187).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0049).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.

ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO: BIRTH OF A GREEN LIZARDBy Alexander Derkachenko, signed with the artist's markUkraine, late 1990s to early 2000sFrom Alexander Derkachenko's “Birth” series. The green lizard with neatly incised scales is nestled into an eggshell, hatching, the reptile carved from stained boxwood with inlaid and painted amber eyes and the eggshell carved from mammoth tusk. With an ojime depicting a lizard's eye, carved from stained boxwood and inlaid with amber. Both the netsuke and the ojime are signed by the artist.LENGTH 3.5 cm (netsuke), HEIGHT 1.7 cm (ojime)Condition: Excellent condition.Provenance: From an Austrian private collection formed in the 1990s-early 2000s. Acquired from the artist directly.

MASANAO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAT ON A MUSHROOMBy a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Yamada, Ise province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a small rat (nezumi) with bulging eyes inlaid in dark lustrous horn, clinging to the cap of a large mushroom, its long tail extending in a semi-circle, its fur finely incised, as are the gills of the mushroom. The bulbous stem and cap are smooth and finely stained, and the himotoshi are formed by the natural hollow between the stem and underside of the mushroom. Signed MASANAO. LENGTH 5.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and one tiny nick to the edge of the rat's ear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.While rats are a common subject by the Masanao family, the combination of rat and mushroom appears to be very rare.Auction comparison:Compare a related Masanao wood netsuke of a rat with a peanut, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 139 (sold for EUR 4,045).

A FINE MARINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECLINING GOATUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Of compact form, the tusk carved as a recumbent goat with its head turned to the side, the forelegs tucked under, and the shaggy coat finely engraved with accentuated lines. The face with its characteristically long snout, scrolling beard, eyes to the sides with pupils inlaid in dark horn, and curling horns to the top. The animal's inherent strength and toughness are perfectly expressed, inspiring those born under the sign of hitsuji (Year of the Ram) to overcome any difficulty with strength and perseverance. Two himotoshi through the underside. The netsuke is carved from a section of variegating tusk, the underside with a semi-translucent yellowish hue and beautiful deep patina.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and natural age cracks.Provenance: Paul Moss, Sydney Moss Ltd., London. A North German collection, acquired from the above.The type of fur design and the expressive head with long snout and curved horns suggest a Kyoto studio.The goat (hitsuji) is the eighth zodiac animal and is responsible for the 6th month and the hours between 1pm and 3pm. Goats and sheep were not originally indigenous to Japan and were introduced there. Netsuke representations of these animals do not allow an exact distinction between goat and sheep or ram.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a goat (hitsuji), 18th century, at Zacke, 7th Exhibition 1988, Vienna, no. 63.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a reclining goat, mid-19th century, sold at Lempertz, Japan II-Armour, Netsuke, Inro, Sagemono incl. The Papp Collection II, 7 December 2018, Cologne, lot 480 (sold for EUR 7,500).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 202/23HH). 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.

HIDEMASA: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF AN EAGLE AND NAMAZUBy Shuosai Hidemasa, signed Hidemasa 秀正Japan, Osaka, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Superbly carved in motion, depicting an eagle punching its talons into a catfish or namazu (earthquake fish) which is writhing beneath the weight of the predator. Pecking at the head of its prey as it begins to feast, the artist captures the wrinkling motion of the fish's skin as it creases from the pull of the eagle's beak. The feathers of the bird are meticulously carved and stained, the eyes of both namazu and eagle are inlaid in black wood. Excellent, asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside and signed within the typical wavy reserve HIDEMASA.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and expected age cracks.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.Literature comparison:Compare a closely ivory netsuke of an eagle and namazu by the same artist, signed Hidemasa, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 145.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke by the same artist depicting an eagle and monkey, signed Hidemasa, at Christie's, Japanese and Korean Art, 16 September 2003, New York, lot 295 (sold for USD 8,963).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2301000017-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

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 eyes 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.

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A JUROJIN DOLL, ATTRIBUTED TO HIDEMASAUnsigned, attributed to HidemasaJapan, Osaka, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of compact and rounded form, the Jurojin doll enveloped in a voluminous robe with a cowl draped over his elongated head, the robe incised and inked in irregularly shaped reserves with five different designs including hanabishi, waves and asanoha. The Lucky God depicted laughing, his eyes crinkling to the corners, mouth agape and stained red, framed by ears with distended lobes, and a long and finely incised beard. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the back. Unsigned, however attributed to Hidemasa of Osaka. The beautifully stained ivory bearing a fine patina.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and age cracks.Museum comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of Fukurokuju with similar features by Hidemasa, signed Hidemasa and kakihan, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), accession number 1985.399.29.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2301000014-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SKULL WITH A SNAKEUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryThe morbid subject finely carved, the twisting body of the snake slithering on top of the static skull detailed with cavernous eye sockets and parietal lines, the body of the serpent naturalistically carved, varying in thickness with finely detailed scales, its eyes inlaid in dark horn. Natural himotoshi.LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: A few age cracks with associated repairs and fills. Otherwise good condition with minor wear and traces of use.The combination of skull and snake represents the Buddhist philosophy of the impermanence of life, which can be summarized as 'Memento Mori' (latin for 'remember that you die').In Japanese Samurai culture, the influence of Zen Buddhist contemplation of death on indigenous culture can be gauged by the following quotation from the classic treatise on samurai ethics, the Hagakure:“The Way of the Samurai is, morning after morning, the practice of death, considering whether it will be here or be there, imagining the most sightly way of dying, and putting one's mind firmly in death. Although this may be a most difficult thing, if one will do it, it can be done. There is nothing that one should suppose cannot be done.”In the annual appreciation of cherry blossom and fall colors, hanami and momijigari, it was philosophized that things are most splendid at the very moment just before their fall, and to aim to live and die in a similar fashion.Museum comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of two snakes on a skull, unsigned, in the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, accession number B70Y199.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2301000017-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

MASATOMO: AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF A SEATED MONKEY STUDYING A PEACH NETSUKEBy Masatomo, signed Masatomo 正友Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryThe finely carved ivory netsuke depicting a monkey collector with inlaid eyes of dark horn and neatly incised fur, holding glasses (now lost) in his right hand, as he studies a peach netsuke attached to a four-case inro. Natural himotoshi and signed within a polished, rectangular reserve MASATOMO.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Good condition with minor surface wear. The glasses lost. The tail possibly chipped and now smoothened.Literature comparison: Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a monkey studying Netsuke and Inro, by Masatami, illustrated by Symmes, E. C. (1991) Netsuke Japanese Life and Legend in Miniature, p. 57, pl. 2.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a monkey with glasses and inro, inspecting a peach netsuke, at Van Ham, Asiatische Kunst, 6 June 2015, Cologne, lot 308 (sold for EUR 4,515).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2307517142-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE UMIMATSU NETSUKE OF A TURTLE ON DRIFTWOODUnsignedJapan, Iwami province, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The turtle with a short, stubby tail walking across a gnarled section of driftwood, its head extended and turned to the right looking up, the carapace neatly incised. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the wood. The material beautifully polished and showing hues of caramel inclusions.LENGTH 7.4 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and a few natural age cracks.Umimatsu (lit. 'sea pine'), commonly known as black coral, is a soft deep-water coral. Many patterns of growth are unique to black coral, growing in whips, trees, fans, or coils, and their size ranges from 10 to 300 cm. While it is commonly used in various forms of jewelry in Japanese art, it is also believed to have apotropaic power and is for this reason used in numerous medical treatments as well.Literature comparison:Compare a related umimatsu netsuke of a minogame on a log, signed Tomiharu, illustrated by Harris, Victor (1987) The Hull Grundy Collection in the British Museum, p. 43, no. 137.

GARAKU: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A FISHER GIRL WITH GIANT AWABIBy Risuke Garaku, signed Garaku 我樂Japan, Osaka, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Katchen, Arlette (2010) Netsuke 7, Vol. 1, pp. 184-185, no. K690.A superbly carved ivory netsuke of a fisher girl or ama, naked but for a skirt, leaning on a gigantic awabi shell, a small hook in her right hand. She is visibly pleased with her find, laughing and fondling the shell. The awabi is carved naturalistically, showing the typical openings and finely incised lines stained with sumi-e (ink). The underside shows a deep yellow-orange and lustrous patina, as well as the ear-shaped structure which give the awabi the nickname “ear shell”. One himotoshi underneath the fisher girl and the other larger one next to the signature within an irregular oval reserve GARAKU.LENGTH 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear. Some natural age cracks and wear to stained details.Provenance: Julius & Arlette Katchen collection, Paris. Then sold by Rutherston & Bandini to an English private collector. Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 68 (sold for EUR 13,240). A private collection, acquired from the above.Netsuke of human figures are exceptionally rare by this Soken Kisho artist.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0080).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 PALE BOXWOOD KYOGEN MASK NETSUKE OF A GROTESQUE FOREIGNER, ATTRIBUTED TO KOKEISAI SANSHOAttributed to Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936), signed with a kakihanJapan, Osaka, early 20th centuryFinely carved and stained, the mask with a grotesque face, detailed with hollowed pupils on bulging eyes, a broad and prominent nose with pierced nostrils, and a mouth wide open revealing the teeth and curled tongue within, all below flaming, bushy brows. The face carved with conspicuous wrinkles and grooves and the finely incised hair, parted down the middle, and finishing in swirls of a typical lozenge wig. The reverse with a central himotoshi bar and signed with a kakihan, attributed to Kokeisai Sansho.HEIGHT 4.2 cmCondition: Restorations to the jaw and himotoshi bar. Otherwise good condition and presenting very well.Provenance: Tajan, Paris, 21 November 2005. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936) was a brilliant Osaka carver. His life and work are discussed by Boris Filatov in Kokeisai Sansho: Mystery of the Genius (Spring 2012) International Netsuke Society Journal, vol. 32, no. 1, p. 12-25.Literature comparison: Compare a closely related boxwood Kyogen mask netsuke of a grotesque face, attributed to Kokeisai Sansho and signed with kakihan, illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art (1996) Netsuke Through Three Centuries, pp. 135, no. 161. Also compare a related boxwood mask netsuke of a Ryo-o mask, signed with a kakihan, Ducros, Alain (1994) Paris Edo, p. 17, no. 16.

A WOOD SHUNGA NETSUKE OF OKAME CRADLING A HUGE MUSHROOMUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as the mirthful Shinto deity Okame, naked to the waist, seated with one leg crossed and the other bent as she attempts to support the weight of the large matsutake mushroom on her lap. Her round, plump face is carved with a gleeful expression, very much aware of the phallic shape of the mushroom. Good himotoshi to the back and underside.HEIGHT 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with old wear.Provenance: Swiss private collection formed from the 1980s-2000s.Literature comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of Okame cradling a mushroom, by Kishosai, illustrated in Katchen, Arlette (2010) Netsuke 7, Vol. 2, pp. 245, no. K769.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

GYOKUZAN: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHIBy Gyokuzan, signed Gyokuzan 玉山Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the seated lion playfully clutching a large ball with three paws, its ears drooping down, and its mouth opened exposing large fangs and holding a loose ball. The Buddhist lion's boisterous locks are finely stained and carved in large swaths of curly tufts with minute incisions, the bushy mane swept to one side on its back exposing the ribcage and muscular legs. Good and well-hollowed himotoshi to the base and back. Signed to the base of the ball within an oval reserve GYOKUZAN – this rarely encountered artist was likely a pupil of Mitsuharu of Kyoto.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shishi, by Mitsuharu, at Bonhams, 12 November 2008, London, lot 422 (sold for 4,200 GBP). Compare a related ivory netsuke of a kirin, by Gyokuzan, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 31 (sold for EUR 2,600).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0072).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE WOOD AND METAL NETSUKE OF A TEAKETTLE (CHAGAMA)UnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The flaring vessel rising from a rounded base to a short circular neck fitted with a metal lid, incised with a kashiwa mon in the form of three oak leaves, the shoulders flanked by beast mask handles. The body decorated with thick pines on a stippled ishime ground imitating cast iron. The lid with looped cord attachment, the cord passing through a large himotoshi underneath.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and nicks around the bottom edge.

A SUPERB AND LARGE WOOD NETSUKE OF A HORSEUnsignedJapan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the horse standing with its hooves drawn delicately together. Its tale swishing to its side as it cranes its neck over its back. Its mane is parted and carved with fine incision work. A single himotoshi to the side and another to the underbelly. The rich, reddish wood is of a superb grain with a naturally grown, dark patina.HEIGHT 8.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and a few tiny nicks here and there.Provenance: Ex-collection Guy de Lasteyrie. De Lasteyrie is a member of the Lasteyrie du Saillant family and is considered among the leading French collectors of netsuke.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a standing horse similarly posed, signed Tomotada, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, London, lot 145 (sold for GBP 30,000).

SUKEYUKI: A RARE HIDA SCHOOL ITTOBORI YEW WOOD NETSUKE OF A DARUMA DOLLBy Kawashiri Sukeyuki (died 1915), signed Sukeyuki 亮之Japan, Takayama, Hida Province, late 19th to early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Carved in ittobori (single cut) technique from ichii (yew) wood as a Daruma doll, nearly fully enveloped in his robes, his face bearing an ill-tempered expression. His eyes with pupils inlaid in dark horn looking upward in disgruntled exasperation. Two himotoshi to the side. Signed SUKEYUKI.HEIGHT 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear and traces of use including some tiny nicks and surface scratches.Provenance: From a private collection in the United States, acquired prior to 1941.The composition is reminiscent of the early 20th century cubism art movement pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, who were heavily influenced by Japanese art.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related ittobori ichii wood netsuke of Daruma, signed Sukeyuki, illustrated in Ducros, Alain (1987) Netsuke & Sagemono 2, p. 84, no. 131. Compare a closely related ittobori ichii wood netsuke of Daruma, signed Sukeyuki, illustrated in Aaldernick (1985) The Buzaglo Collection of fine Netsuke, November to December, p. 33, no. 340.

IKKOSAI: A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF OMORI HIKOSHICHI ENCOUNTERING THE DEMONESSBy 'Saru' Ikkosai, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryPublished: Giovanni Rimondi and Lukas Zacke (2019), Combien de Ikkosai, Part II. INSJ 39/3, p. 33, fig. 36.Carved in a fluid motion, the hero's right foot raised and one hand gripping the hilt of his sword with his garments and the robes of the demoness displaying the dipping and pivoting motion as the samurai turns to slay the evil creature. The musculature of his legs as well as the hands, face, and wrinkled skin of the demoness are superbly captured, her sharp fangs and claws finely detailed; their finely stained robes are decorated with kiku flowers, karakusa and stylized clouds. Two good himotoshi to the back. Signed within an oval reserve IKKOSAI.HEIGHT 7.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor and small chip to the horn of the demoness.Provenance: Christie's, Japanese and Korean Art, 22 September 2005, lot 308. Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, acquired from the above.Omori Hikoshichi, a loyal vassal of Ashikaga Takauji (1305-1358), was rewarded with governorship of a large territory after his assistance in the defeat of Kusunoki Masashige (1294-1336). To celebrate his improved status, Hikohichi sponsored a large party that lasted for several days. One night while on his way to the festivities, Hikohichi came upon a beautiful girl distressed after having lost her way. Carrying her on his back for some distance, they finally came to a river. As they crossed it, Hikohichi saw the girl's face reflected in the water and he realized she had transformed herself into a terrible demon. In some versions of the story, the demon is supposed to be the daughter of Kusunoki Masashige trying to avenge her father's death. This dynamic composition captures the moment after Omori HIkoshichi realizes the true identity of the maiden when he moves to draw his sword and kills the demoness.The artist specialized in animal netsuke with only very few figural netsuke recorded. For a detailed discussion of the artist see INSJ Vol. 39, no. 3, Fall 2019, pp. 29-34.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0077).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 OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT ON A STRAW MATUnsignedJapan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a rat (nezumi) seated on a folded straw mat, clutching a chestnut tightly with its tiny paws. The rodent further cushioned by a bed of leaves which are also enclosed within the mat. The charming rat is carved with a small, pointed snout, wide round eyes inlaid in highly polished dark horn, prominent ears, and a thick tail curling to the side. Generously excavated himotoshi underneath. The ivory bearing a fine, yellowish patina and the neatly incised hairwork is appealingly worn.LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and only very few, faint natural age cracks.Literature comparison:For a closely related Osaka school ivory netsuke of a rat on a partially opened scroll, probably from the school of Garaku, see Barry Davies Oriental Art (1995) 100 Selected Pieces from the Netsuke Collection of Scott Meredith, no. 33.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2301000016-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

MASAYUKI: A FINE WOOD 'DOUBLE MASK' NETSUKE OF THE EBISU TYPEBy Masayuki, signed Masayuki 正之Japan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bushell, Raymond (1961) The Netsuke Handbook by Ueda Reikichi, p. 91, no. 87.Bushell, Raymond (1985), Netsuke Masks, p. 59, pl. 240.Finely carved as the head of the lucky god Ebisu, portrayed smiling ear to ear, his eyes cheerful and leering to one side, his tongue sticking out, all flanked by thick pendulous earlobes. A second tengu-like face can be viewed by turning the netsuke upside down. The reverse with a central bar housing a single himotoshi and signed MASAYUKI.HEIGHT 4.6 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. Repair to the himotoshi bar.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond and Frances Bushell. Sotheby's, Netsuke from the Collection of Raymond and Frances Bushell, 21 March 2000, New York, lot 303. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.

SENGYOKU: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF DARUMA DISTURBED IN HIS MEDITATIONBy Sengyoku, signed Sengyoku 千玉Japan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a seated Daruma, enveloped in his voluminous robe, reaching with his hossu (Buddhist fly whisk) to swat a pesky rat which has made its way up to the meditating Bodhidharma's shoulders and is trying to nibble on his ear, Daruma's sweeping motion stalling the rat's endeavors at present. His robe, tattered, signaling the triumph of the rat in breaking the monk's concentration. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the base and signed SENGYOKU – an apparently unrecorded artist who was likely a pupil of Gyokusai. LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor surface wear.Provenance: French private collection, with an old label pasted to the underside.Daruma has long been the symbol of resilience and perseverance, attested by the Japanese proverb, Nana korobi ya oki (fall down seven times, stand up eight). During his long meditative retreat, Daruma was the subject of all sorts of temptations from demons, and rats chewed on his ears and other body parts. When he finally attempted to rise from his position of meditation, he discovered that his legs had withered away.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related boxwood netsuke of Daruma disturbed in his meditation, by Gyokusai, at Christie's, 4 November 2009, London, lot 139.

GYOKUMIN: A FINE TOKYO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF EBISU CATCHING A SEA BREAMBy Gyokumin, signed Gyokumin 玉眠Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved as Ebisu mounted on a sea bream (tai), crouching as he holds a rope, his back supported by the fish's upturned tail. The deity smiles as he looks straight ahead, his face framed by thick, pendulous earlobes. He is dressed in fine robes decorated with scrolling waves and lacquer. The amusingly flattened sea bream is finely detailed with incised scales, a mouth slightly ajar, and small round eyes. Asymmetrical, ringed himotoshi to the base and signed in a red-lacquered oval reserve GYOKUMIN.LENGTH 3.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear to lacquered details.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 24-B-0068).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 KYOTO SCHOOL ANTLER NETSUKE OF A DOGUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved and beautifully worn, the male dog seated on its haunches, its head detailed with floppy ears looking down, a collar around its neck, one paw firmly pressing down on a smooth ball. Generously excavated himotoshi to the back and underside.HEIGHT 5.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, appealingly worn, few typical 'natural imperfections'.Provenance: Galerie Zacke, Vienna, 12 October 1983. Swiss private collection formed from the 1980s-2000s, acquired from the above. A copy of an old expertise from Galerie Zacke accompanies this lot.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related antler netsuke of a dog, attributed to Okatomo or Okatori, dated 18th century, illustrated in Moss, Paul (2016) Kokusai The Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. I, Sydney L. Moss Ltd., p. 36, fig. 23.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

SUKESADA: A RARE ITTOBORI YEW WOOD NETSUKE OF A CROUCHING FROGBy Tsuda Sukesada (1857-1920), signed Sukesada 亮貞Japan, Takayama, Hida Province, late 19th to early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)The crouching amphibian carved from ichii (yew) wood and worked in the ittobori (single cut) technique, the two-toned wood cleverly utilized, and the eyes inlaid in dark horn. Two himotoshi underneath and signed SUKESADA.LENGTH 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear and traces of use including some tiny nicks and surface scratches.The composition is reminiscent of the early 20th century cubism art movement pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, who were heavily influenced by Japanese art.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ittobori ichii wood netsuke of a frog by the artist's great grandfather, signed Matsuda Sukenaga (1800-1871), at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 16 June 2023, Vienna, lot 344 (sold for EUR 7,150).

A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A DIVING GIRL, AMAUnsignedJapan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Ducros, Alain (1994) Netsuke & Sagemono, no. 67.An exquisite ivory netsuke depicting a diving/fisher girl (ama) holding an awabi shell suggestively in one hand, the other holding the cord of her straw skirt. Her long finely incised hair flows gently down her back and along one of her breasts as she looks to her left, invitingly smiling with her mouth slightly agape. Her straw skirt resembles a minogame's tail and is, like her hair, treated with sumi ink. She lifts one foot ever so gently, lending movement to the composition. The ivory is beautifully worn with a beautiful honey-golden patina. Large, asymmetrical, and generously excavated himotoshi to the reverse.HEIGHT 7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and light age cracks.Provenance: Eskenazi, April 1986. Ex-collection Guy de Lasteyrie, acquired from the above. De Lasteyrie is a member of the Lasteyrie du Saillant family and is considered among the leading French collectors of netsuke.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of an ama, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 28 (sold for EUR 9,480).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207508115-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A JAKONEKO (MUSK CAT)UnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely carved, charming depiction of a jakoneko with its head raised over crossed forelimbs and curled paws. The coat incised with accentuated lines, falling in heavy tresses over its body, parted down the spine. The face with a gently turned snout, floppy ears, eyes inlaid in dark horn, and a scrolling beard. Generously excavated, asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside which shows the superbly carved paws and a gorgeous honey patina.LENGTH 5.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and age cracks.Provenance: Sotheby's, Fine Netsuke, Inro, and Lacquer, 6 October 1982, lot 6. The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris, acquired from the above.The jakoneko or musk cat, often called a shaggy dog, is of African origin and entered Japan via India, where it became popular for its musk, used for perfumes.Museum comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shaggy dog, attributed to Gechu, in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), accession number AC1998.249.94.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shaggy dog, by Okatomo, illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art, The Netsuke Collection of W.G Bosshard Part 1, no. 134.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2307513760-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

HAKURYU I: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A TIGER AND CUBBy Unsho Hakuryu I, signed Hakuryu 白龍Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the adult resting one large paw protectively over its cub and baring its very sharp teeth with the mouth wide open. The stripes are stained black, appearing like running black paint somewhat similar to the Otoman tiger's fur coats, and the eyes are inlaid in buffalo horn, those of the adult with double inlays of pale and dark horn. The eye pupils are placed typically wide apart, resulting in the idiosyncratic 'crazed' expression. Natural himotoshi and the underside with the signature HAKURYU within an oval reserve. The ivory bearing a stunning color with a fine orange-yellow patina.LENGTH 3.7 cm, HEIGHT 3 cmCondition: Good condition with minor surface wear, some loss to staining, attractively worn with a fine honey-gold patina. Old repair to the smaller tiger's paws.Provenance: Elly Nordskog Collection, sold by Sydney Moss Ltd. Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 55 (sold for EUR 14,640). A private collection, acquired from the above.Literature comparison: A closely related ivory netsuke by the same carver is illustrated with a line drawing in Meinertzhagen / Lazarnick (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 120.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related ivory netsuke by the same artist at Sotheby's, Japanese and Korean Works of Art, 14 July 2005, London, lot 1090 (sold for 11,040 GBP). Also compare to a similar netsuke recently sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 27 March 2020, Vienna, lot 47 (sold for 15,990 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0079).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 CHINESE IMMORTAL WITH A GOURDUnsignedJapan, first half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved from a section of the outer tusk, the immortal (most likely Chokaro sennin) hunched over as he embraces his magical double-gourd (hyotan). The immortal is dressed in a voluminous robe with billowing sleeves which fall and drape over his frame elegantly. Perfectly functional and generously excavated himotoshi to the back. The ivory with patches of naturally grown honey-gold patina.The curvature of the natural material, being carved from the curved outer section of the tusk, has imposed restrictions on the artist in regard to the subject matter and composition of the carving, and the artist has utilized this 'scrap material' to great effect.HEIGHT 6.1 cmCondition: Good condition with minor surface wear and very few age cracks.Provenance: Collection of Fritz Niescher, and thence by descent in the same family. Fritz Niescher (1889-1974) was a Chemnitz entrepreneur who built an impressive collection comprised of Japanese works of art and modern art. His extensive collection included works by Ernst Barlach and Otto Dix. Pieces from his collection have been part of traveling exhibits since his death, and many are housed today in the Ernst Barlach Haus in Hamburg.The horse is the familiar of Chokaro sennin, who is able to conjure the animal out of a gourd at will. The Japanese expression hyotan kara koma (lit. 'a horse in the gourd'), refers to a completely unexpected event that actually comes to pass, akin to the flight of pigs in the English-speaking world. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number DE-DÃœS231016-116). 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: A RARE COROZO NUT NETSUKE OF TWO MUSHROOMS AND A WORMBy Yoshimasa, signed Yoshimasa 義正Japan, second half of 19th centuryA remarkable corozo nut carving, also known as vegetable ivory, of a large mushroom with a smaller mushroom growing beneath in its shade. A small worm has burrowed its way through the cap of the larger fungi. The artist cleverly utilizing the mottled dark brown exterior of the nut for the head of the larger mushroom and the smooth ivory-like interior for its stem and gills. Himotoshi underneath and signed along the stem within a wavy reserve YOSHIMASA.LENGTH 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.