We found 24840 price guide item(s) matching your search

ISSHINSAI: A HUMOROUS WOOD NETSUKE OF TANUKI WITH A MAGICAL DARUMA DOLL SCROTUM By Isshinsai Masanao, signed Isshinsai 一心齋Japan, Yamada, Ise province, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Joly, Henri L. (1966) W.L. Behrens Collection: Netsuke and Japanese Carvings, Part 1, no. 3143, illustrated on pl. XXXVI.Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A Comprehensive Study Based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 200, no. 608.The shapeshifting creature sitting on its hindquarters and sensitively leaning on its magical scrotum which has, rather amusingly, transformed into an expressively carved Daruma doll detailed with minutely incised hair. The eyes of Daruma looking down beneath furrowed brows, appearing to question its existence, its mouth open revealing a movable tongue. The tanuki's fur is minutely incised and Daruma's eyes are inlaid with dark horn pupils. Two himotoshi to the side of the tanuki, and signed ISSHINSAI.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Good condition with typical wear, a few tiny nicks here and there, and a small chip to the ear and foot of the tanuki.Provenance: Collection of W. L. Behrens (1861-1913). Ex-collection W. Guest, acquired from the above. Collection of M.T. Hindson, acquired from the above. Sotheby's London, 9 July 1969, lot 643. Christie's New York, 29 June 1981, lot 326. Collection of Richard R. Silverman, acquired from the above. Richard R. Silverman (1932-2019) was a renowned Asian art collector with one of the largest private collections of netsuke outside of Japan. He lived in Tokyo between 1964 and 1979 and began to collect netsuke there in 1968. From the 1970s onward, he wrote and lectured about netsuke and was an Asian art consultant for Christie's, Sotheby's, and Bonhams. His gift of 226 ceramic netsuke to the Toledo Museum of Art constitutes perhaps the largest public collection of these miniature clay sculptures in the world. After moving to California, Silverman became a member of the Far Eastern Art Council at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1984. In 1993, he joined LACMA's Executive Board. He served on the board of directors for the International Society of Appraisers from 1986 to 1994 and served nine years as chair for the City of West Hollywood Fine Arts Commission. Richard Silverman was posthumously awarded the Order of the Rising Sun for his decades-long promotion of Japanese culture.The tanuki possesses magical powers and can change forms, sometimes into Buddhist monks; they are jovial, but also dangerous, as they have been known to suffocate hunters with their enormous scrotums. The present netsuke showing the tanuki with a Daruma doll scrotum appears to be a unique creation by the Masanao family and only one other netsuke of this type is known so far, signed Masanao, now in a German private collection.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A BLINDFOLDED GEISHA WITH ATTENDANTUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and depicting a very unusual subject of a geisha kneeling blindfolded, dressed in a typical kimono and balancing a chawan (teacup) and plate with both hands, while an attendant boy, whose arm is wrapped around the woman, points suggestively at the cup, perhaps due to its mushroom shape. The faces of both are gleeful, their mouths opened in wide grins. Two small himotoshi to the base. The ivory finely stained and bearing an attractive patina. HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear and natural age cracks.This rare netsuke illustrates a game played by geisha and geisha in training (maiko) in tea houses known as ochaya, where the lady entertainers would serve tea blindfolded. Various games like this were played by costumers and entertainers alike, and a few of these are illustrated on prints from the Edo period.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number DE-TÜ-0355-23). 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.

NAGAMITSU: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF GOBAN TADANOBUBy Nagamitsu, signed Nagamitsu 永光 saku作Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Caught off guard, Tadanobu is attacked while playing a game of go, the board upturned as he pins one enemy soldier on it and tussles another with his bare hands, the two samurai dressed in full armor, one with his sword drawn, while Tadanobu is clad in flowing robes, unarmed. The underside shows one of the samurai amusingly flattened, a single himotoshi through the go board and the signature within an oval reserve NAGAMITSU saku [made by Nagamitsu]. The well-worn wood bearing a fine, dark patina.HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Good condition with old wear and traces of use. A few age cracks.Sato Tadanobu (1161-1186) was a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune (1159-1189). He is commonly known as Goban (Go-board) Tadanobu after the story surrounding his death. Attacked while engaged in a game of Go, he picked up the heavy game board to defend himself, repelling his would-be assassins. This episode has been a popular theme in ukiyo prints, and has also inspired kabuki plays such as Yoshino Shizuka Goban Tadanobu and Yoshitsune Senbon Zakura, and the ko-jururi play Goban Tadanobu.

AN EXQUISITE HIRADO PORCELAIN NETSUKE OF A PUPPYUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryFinely and sensitively modeled, the recumbent dog with the head raised and turned to one side, wearing a plain fabric collar tied at the back of the neck, the short tail elegantly swung to one side, the animal further detailed with almond-shaped eyes, floppy ears, and neatly incised fur, the underside with two asymmetrical himotoshi.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and firing irregularities.Provenance: Ex-collection Conte Don Enrico Lucchesi Palli, Monarch of Campofranco. Purchased in 1889, when he accompanied his cousin Enrico (Henry), Prince of Parma, Earl of Bardi, on a tour of the world from 1887-1891. By descent within the same family. With an old Japanese collector's label to the base.Auction comparison:Compare a near identical Hirado porcelain netsuke of a puppy, unsigned, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 311 (sold for EUR 1,696).

ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO: BIRTH OF A SNAKE (HEBI NO TOMAGO)By Alexander Derkachenko, signed with the artist's markUkraine, late 1990s to early 2000sFrom Alexander Derkachenko's “Birth” series. The snake (hebi) with neatly incised scales is nestled into an eggshell, hatching, the reptile carved from stained boxwood, its extended tongue carved form buffalo horn, the eyes inlaid with painted amber and the eggshell carved from mammoth tusk. With an ojime depicting a snake's eye, carved from stained boxwood and inlaid with amber. Both the netsuke and the ojime are signed by the artist.LENGTH 3.8 cm (netsuke), HEIGHT 1.5 cm (ojime)Condition: Excellent condition.Provenance: From an Austrian private collection formed in the 1990s-early 2000s. Acquired from the artist directly.

KEIKOKU: A VERY FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF MONJU BOSATSUBy Keikoku, signed Keikoku 渓谷Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved with the protective deity seated in royal ease atop a shishi as she plays the flute. Dressed in a voluminous robe with billowing scarves, the bodhisattva's sincere face is carved with a calm demeanor and her urna is inlaid in dark horn. The Buddhist lion with eyes inlaid in mother-of-pearl and teeth of gilt metal. The underside shows two large himotoshi and the signature within a square silver tablet KEIKOKU - this rare artist is associated with Suzuki Tokoku (1846-1913) who carved similar fine works with inlays and often signed his name on silver tablets.LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor wear.Provenance: Lotos, Zuerich, Switzerland, 1987. Swiss private collection formed from the 1980-2000s, acquired from the above on 31 August 1987. A copy of the confirmation from Lotos, Zuerich, signed by C. Egloff, accompanies the lot.Literature comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke, by Jujo (school of Jugyoku), in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 279.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related bamboo netsuke of Monju Bosatsu, smaller in size (2.6 cm), by Tosai, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 213 (sold for EUR 1,950).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

GUY SHAW: OWLBy Guy Shaw (1951-2003), signed with the artist's initial GSEngland, 1992Published: Edition Zacke, Wolfmar Zacken (1993) Japanische Meisterwerke der Netsuke Kunst, pp. 65-66, no. 106.Carved from highly polished fossilized Alaskan coral. A masterful and lively depiction of an owl, captured with remarkable sensitivity, sitting on a gnarled section of densely intertwined mangrove roots. The nocturnal bird stands tall despite camouflaging into its surroundings, its large umimatsu-inlaid eyes alert in search of prey. The natural undulation of this beautiful material permitting the owl's plumage to shine through. Natural himotoshi through the gnarled roots and signed to the back in a raised oval reserve with the artist's initials GS.HEIGHT 7.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Galerie Zacke, Vienna, Japanische Meisterwerke der Netsuke Kunst - Ausstellung 1993, lot 106. Private collection of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia (1921-2019), Switzerland, acquired from the above on 16 May 1993. A copy of the collector's notes, confirming the provenance above, stating a purchase price of CHF 5,900, (or approx. EUR 7,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing), and noting the official price as CHF 7,200, accompanies this lot. The same note charmingly notes that Guy Shaw fondly remembered Ms. Haupt-Battaglia as his first customer and one who bought three netsuke from him.On the subject of the present lot, Guy Shaw notes that he was particularly preoccupied by the movement of the crippled branch on which the owl sits. In fact, he works on this contrast in a particularly accentuated way, emphasizing the owl even more by raising it upwards like a rigid sculpture. His choice of material, intentional, "the remarkable structure seems to be feathery inside and in certain lights it glows with a pale blue, something known to gemologists as "chatoyancy" (a kind of opalescence) ... All in all a very mysterious material for a very mysterious bird!"Guy Shaw (1951-2003) was one of Britain's finest netsuke carvers. Shaw attended the Bournemouth College of Art and sometime after graduation was introduced to netsuke via the collection of his landlord, Francis Dinley. Netsuke carving attempts a visual replication of nature, place and time, and it was in this field that Shaw, with his lifelong love of the wild, found his vocation.

SEIHO: THE FOUR SLEEPERS, SHISUIBy Katsuo Azuma (Seiho, 1936-2003), signed Seiho 声方Japan, Ibaraki prefecture, c. 1990Finely carved in stained boxwood with the Zen master Bukan and his pet tiger snuggling close to take a nap, the legendary eccentrics Kanzan and Jittoku similarly huddled close to the ferocious beast, all figures carefully carved and incised with precise details especially to the fur and snoozing faces. Himotoshi to the side and signed underneath in a rectangular reserve SEIHO.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Good condition. Repair to the edge of Bukan's foot.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.The “four sleepers” depicted here are drawn from Chinese lore: the Chan (Zen) master Bukan (Chinese: Fenggan) and his pet tiger, along with Kanzan (Chinese: Hanshan), a recluse poet of the ninth century, and his constant companion, Jittoku (Chinese: Shide), a former monk. Together they symbolize peaceful coexistence with nature and the enlightened mind. The subject was first popularized in Japan through paintings imported from China, and interpretations of the theme were produced in Japan from as early as the fourteenth century.Bukan is said to have met Jittoku when he was still a child. He raised him at his temple on Mount Tiantai, where the boy worked in the kitchen. Kanzan is said to have written the anthology Poems of Cold Mountain—the title based on the literal meaning of the poet's name—and was reputed to regularly visit the monastery to collect food from his friend Jittoku. The tiger, normally Bukan's means of transportation, serves for the moment as the trio's pillow.Seiho, born as Katsuo Azuma in 1936 in Ibaraki prefecture, studied carving under the famous Hose Maguro until he turned 22. Seiho is well known for his legendary and mythological figures, animals, and religious subjects. He was a member of the International Netsuke Carvers Association and has received several awards from the Ueno Royal Museum and the Japan Art Association.

MIWA: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO BLIND MEN FIGHTINGBy Miwa, signed with a kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Amusingly carved as two blind men gripping the necks of each other, one straining his head away and opening one bloodshot eye painted red. The carving is masterfully executed, well balanced, and has several orientations, placing one or the other man on top. The legs of both men are amusingly tangled in the tussle, their feet wearing geta, and the robes of one with stained horn inlays. Two nicely hollowed himotoshi to the back of one man, one of the cord holes ringed in ebony. Signed with the characteristic square 'seal' kakihan of Miwa.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear.Provenance: J. Hubbard Ltd., 20 February 1987. English private collection, acquired from the above.Interestingly, the present netsuke is unclear as to who is dominating in this conflict, as turning the netsuke will produce a different winner, alluding to the concept of Yin and Yang.

MITSUHIRO: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A BIWA (LOQUAT)By Ohara Mitsuhiro (1810-1875), signed Mitsuhiro 光廣 with kakihanJapan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Naturalistically carved and finely stained to depict four loquats borne on a gnarled branch and with a half-eaten leaf, the edge of the netsuke carved to imitate a freshly cut branch. Signed MITSUHIRO with a kakihan.LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, expected age cracks.This subject was favored by Mitsuhiro due to its tactile nature. The design is recorded in Mitsuhiro / Mikoshiba, Misao (transl.) (2001) Takarabukuro: A Netsuke Artist Notebook, p. 129, no. 156, where Mitsuhiro notes: "showing a leaf and a fruit. A short branch is curved to hold a cord. Ishime finished should be used. An exact copy made to look old."Auction comparison:Compare related ivory netsuke of a fly on a biwa by Mitsuhiro, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April, 2023, lot 46 (sold for EUR 2,600). Compare a related ivory netsuke of a biwa by Mitsuhiro, at Christie's, The I.A. and Cecile Mann Victor Collection of Netsuke, 20 April 1989, New York, lot 75 (sold for USD 1,400).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2309200747-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.

AN ANTLER RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A RAIN DRAGONUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, second half of the 19th centuryFinely carved in openwork depicting the sinuous rain or water dragon (amaryu), its slender body emerging from clouds, and enclosed by a circular frame imitating the disc of a kagamibuta. The reverse carved with three leaves within a nyoi frame, together resembling the tomo-e. Central himotoshi to the underside.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ryusa manju antler netsuke depicting a rain dragon, unsigned, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 3 November 2023, Vienna, lot 303 (sold for EUR 1,040).

A PALE BOXWOOD MASK NETSUKE OF A KARASU TENGU, ATTRIBUTED TO KOKEISAI SANSHOAttributed to Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936), unsignedJapan, Osaka, early 20th centuryFinely carved and lightly stained as a crow-beaked tengu mask wearing a gold-lacquered tokin cap. The mythical beast carved with a menacing expression, its large eyes inlaid with pupils, looking up and set with heavy bags, all below raised, furrowed brows. The reverse with the typically curved, central himotoshi bar.HEIGHT 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear. One inlaid eye with a loss.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.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a Karasu Tengu, mislabeled as Ikkaku sennin, see Boris Filatov (Spring 2012) Kokeisai Sansho: Mystery of the Genius International Netsuke Society Journal, vol. 32, no. 1, p. 24, no. 15.

MEIGYOKUSAI: A RARE HONEN (HORNBILL) NETSUKE OF SHOJOBy Meigyokusai, signed Meigyokusai 明玉齋Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved as the mask of an unusually egg-headed shojo bearing a serene expression with bow-shaped lips forming a calm smile and red hair parting to the sides, the deep-red color naturally utilized from the exterior of the honen (hornbill). The eyes are finely carved beneath arched brows and the material is superbly polished to reveal subtle inclusions, particularly to the sides. The back with a central himotoshi bar and signed MEIGYOKUSAI – not to be confused with the 20th century carver Hiraga Meigyokusai, but a carver active in Tokyo in the latter half of the 19th century.HEIGHT 6.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Provenance: Robert Fleischel, Paris, France, February 2005. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.The hornbill is a bird of the Bucerotidae family having a large bill with a basal bony protuberance partly colored bright orange, known as honen and often used for inlaying the eyes of netsuke depicting rats, rabbits, and other animals whose eyes are red. Netsuke entirely carved from honen are exceedingly rare.Shojo is used exclusively for the play Shojo (The Dancing Orangutan). Despite the name, the mask is that of a smiling youth, certainly not an ape at all. The distinguishing feature of Shojo is his overall reddish color, the color which symbolizes the drunkard. Shojo's hair is painted downward on his forehead in thin separated strands or bangs. For his dance the actor always wears a wig of long red hair with a Shojo mask. The dance symbolizes a drunken orangutan. Some Noh schools use a group of seven dancers all wearing Shojo masks to represent the orangutan.Museum comparison:Compare a related hornbill mask netsuke of Enmei Kaja, by Ono Ryomin of Tokyo, in the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco, accession number B70Y188.

A FINE TSUISHU (CARVED RED LACQUER) MANJU NETSUKE WITH CHINESE LITERATI AND SHISHIUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An early tsuishu lacquer two-part manju netsuke, the front decorated in relief with a Chinese literati attempting to tame a shishi below a gnarled tree, the ground bearing a fine asanoha and hanabishi design. The verso shows a karako running in a rocky landscape, sheltered by a large pine tree. Central ringed metal himotoshi through the back, the looped cord attachment to the interior which is lacquered black.DIAMETER 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear. The looped cord attachment to the interior is likely a replacement.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related tsuishu manju netsuke with Chinese scholars and a mule, at Galerie Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries, 17 January 2024, Vienna, lot 461 (sold for 1,300).

MEIKEISAI HOJITSU: A FINE DARK WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF OKAMEBy Meikeisai Hojitsu (c. 1790-1873), signed Meikeisai Hojitsu 明鶏斎法實Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bushell, Raymond (1985), Netsuke Masks, pl. 136.Finely carved from dark wood with a fine grain, the Shinto deity's mouth open in a cheerful smile, her eyes squinting with delight, the rounded cheeks of the smiling face nicely dimpled. Her bow-shaped lips revealing neatly incised teeth, and her hair is parted in the middle and detailed with minute incisions. The himotoshi is formed by a twining cord linked to both sides with tasseled ends. Signed with the full artist's name MEIKEISAI HOJITSU.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond Bushell. Sotheby's, 21 March 2001, New York. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.According to F. Meinertzhagen, Meikeisai Hojitsu (c. 1790-1873) ranked among the great netsuke masters of the 19th century because of his “keen aesthetic perception combined with [his] supreme craftsmanship and versatility” (MCI, part A, p. 169).Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of an Ofuku mask, signed Meikeisai Hojitsu, in the National Tokyo Museum, illustrated in Arakawa, Hirokazu (1983) The Go Collection of Netsuke, Tokyo National Museum, p. 76-77, no. 129.

MORITA SOKO: A FINE NETSUKE OF A SAMURAI CRAB (HEIKEGANI) ON A CHESTNUTBy Morita Soko (1879-1942), signed Soko 藻己 to 刀Japan, Tokyo, early 20th centuryVery finely carved, the large crustacean seated on the flat side of the chestnut, holding its bulbous pinchers in front. The carapace of the crab is finely textured with its bumps and ridges bearing resemblance to a human face. The chestnut has a smooth texture along the side and the top is worked with a coarse patch realistically depicting where the cluster was attached to the cupule. Good himotoshi to the underside and signed SOKO to [carved by Soko].LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Heikegani is a species of crab native to Japan, with a shell that bears a pattern resembling a human face. It is said this face is that of an angry samurai, hence the crabs more colloquial name, the samurai crab. The crabs are named after the once powerful Taira clan which dominated medieval Japan, commonly known as the Heike. It is believed that these crabs are reincarnations of the Heike warriors defeated at the naval Battle of Dan-no-ura as told in The Tale of the Heike.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.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a crab on chestnut, by Miyazaki Joso, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 22 March 2011, New York, lot 3041 (sold for USD 3,904).

A FINE AND RARE WOOD AND MIXED METAL 'DRAGON' KAGAMIBUTA WITH DAIKOKU AND A RATBy Shuzan and Harumitsu, signed Shuzan 周山 and Harumitsu 春光Japan, second half of 19th centuryThe shibuichi disc finely worked in sunken relief (shishiaibori) with gold details depicting Daikoku holding his mallet and seated next to a rat worked in shibuchi takazogan, seated on his treasure bag, its visible eye inlaid in gold. Signed to the plate above the rat HARUMITSU (likely Nara Harumitsu, Haynes 00827.0).The remarkable wood bowl is finely carved with a coiling dragon, its boldly carved, sinuous body emerging from behind swirling clouds, and clutching a tama pearl. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment to the back of the plate. Signed to the underside SHUZAN.DIAMETER 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, an age crack to the bowl as is to be expected from this type of netsuke. A few minuscule nicks here and there. The shibuichi disc with some surface wear.Nara Harumitsu is listed in the Haynes Index of Japanese Sword Fittings and Associated Artists on p. 209 (H 00827.0). Haynes mentions the artist signed with the Hamano family name and was a student of both the Nara and Hamano School.The rat (nezumi) is a symbol of wealth. Daikoku, the god of wealth, is often depicted with a rat as a means of conveying the wish for 'double wealth'.

HIDEMASA: A SUPERB AND LARGE IVORY NETSUKE OF THE BAKEMONO MIKOSHI NYUDOBy Hidemasa I, signed Hidemasa 秀正Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The long-necked ghastly figure emerging from and towering over a streetlamp, evoking the imagery of night, its boney hands hanging over the roof of the lantern, its large bald head incised with sparse hair and detailed with protruding eyes set in a hollowed face, grinning a wide toothy grin, all flanked by large ears with pendulous lobes. The yokai ghost is dressed in a robe tied at the waist, hanging loosely on its frame with draping sleeves and revealing the emaciated chest underneath. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and signed to the base in cursive characters HIDEMASA. The ivory is superbly stained, as is typical for this master carver who had many followers. HEIGHT 10.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, a small age crack to one sleeve. Mikoshi Nyudo is one of the many ghostly monsters of Japan that are generally known as bakemono or yokai. This monster is usually portrayed with a bald head and a jutting tongue. Although there are many variations of this ghost story across the different regions of Japan, the plots are roughly similar. Essentially, when a person is walking alone at night, the form of a monk suddenly appears. The ghost grows taller every time the person looks up at it and gazing at it for too long invariably results in death. The word Mikoshi 見越し means to "look over" or "tower over" and the word Nyudo 入道 is a common slang name for a priest. Literature comparison:Compare a related large ivory netsuke of Shoki and oni, signed Hidemasa and attributed to Hidemasa I, illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art (1990) Netsuke Classics, no. 46. Museum comparison:This rare signature variant, written in cursive sosho characters, is connected with one other larger piece, by Hidemasa, in the collection of the British Museum, museum number F.602. Compare a related wood netsuke of Mikoshi Nyudo in the British Museum, museum number 1912,1012.2.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2305400016-K). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGONUnsignedJapan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and pierced as a single ferocious dragon amidst swirling clouds, holding a tama (flaming pearl) in one claw. The coiled beast detailed with neatly incised scales and spine, long trailing whiskers, large eyes, and sharp claws. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear, some non-distracting, old, smoothened chips.

A VERY RARE SOLID CORAL NETSUKE OF FUJINUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryAnimatedly carved as the God of Wind Fujin (Futen) captured in a dynamic pose, one knee bent as he attempts to haul the weight of his bag which he uses to propel himself around the world, releasing gusts of wind whenever it pleases him. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the bag. The bright-red coral bearing a beautiful color, the back of the netsuke retaining much of its natural appearance.HEIGHT 3.7 cmWEIGHT 18 gCondition: Very good condition with typical natural flaws to the material.Provenance: From the estate of Phillip Allen (1938-2022), who was a widely respected collector and expert of Chinese ceramics and works of art as well as a director of the Oriental Ceramic Society for many years. He co-authored and edited several exhibition catalogues for the OCS and was best known as the cataloguer of the Sir Victor Sassoon collection of Chinese ivories in the British Museum.Literature comparison:For a related solid coral netsuke of Daruma, unsigned, see Bushell, Raymond (1975) Netsuke Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 151, no. 345. For a related solid coral netsuke of tiger and bamboo, unsigned, see Bushell, Raymond (1975) Netsuke Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 150, no. 342.

A SUPERB AND LARGE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SENNIN WITH A MONKEYUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved standing tall with his head turned slightly to the left, dressed in a mugwort leaf cape and apron, the sennin clutches the stem of a blossoming peony in one hand, the other inelegantly holding a monkey by its leg, the puzzled primate holding tight, clutching the immortal's head with its hands and weaving the spare foot into the sennin's open hair. Generously excavated and asymmetrical himotoshi to the back. The ivory with a lustrous, naturally grown, honey-gold patina.HEIGHT 13 cmCondition: Remarkably well-preserved. Only very few age cracks and minor typical wear. Very good condition.Provenance: Klefisch, Cologne, 14 November 1987, lot 793. 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 Gamma sennin, 18th century, 14 cm tall, at Bonhams, 17 September 2013, New York, lot 2072 (sold for USD 37,500). Note the closely related manner of carving to the mugwort leaf robe, similarily scrolling belt to the front, as well as the comical way the sennin holds the animal's trailing leg. Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a laughing sennin with a monkey, 18th century, 10.3 cm, at Lempertz, 14 June 2014, Cologne, lot 13 (sold for EUR 3,416).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207506413-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.

ANRAKU: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEIBy Shukosai Anraku(sai), signed Anraku 安樂Japan, Osaka, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A superbly carved and stained ivory netsuke of the pot-bellied lucky god Hotei standing laughing with his head tilted upwards, his hands linked behind his back, the sparse hair to his chin and torso minutely incised. Hotei is dressed in a loose robe delicately stippled in masterful ishime and belted at the waist, exposing his chest and distended belly. Generously excavated and asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and signed ANRAKU in boldly incised characters to the underside.HEIGHT 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected surface wear.Provenance: Christie's, Selected Netsuke, Ojime and Inro, Part 1, 25 October 1984, London, lot 41 (sold for GBP 3,240). 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.Literature comparison:This figure of Hotei, particularly the carving of the deity's linked hands, are reminiscent of Kyoto Masanao's boxwood netsuke of Hotei, 18th century, illustrated in Sagemonoya (2004) Ninety-Nine Netsuke & One Inro, p. 10-11, no. 13.Auction comparison: Anraku was a student of the famous Ohara Mitsuhiro (1810-1875) and clear parallels can be drawn between the present lot and ivory netsuke depicting Hotei by Mitsuhiro. Furthermore, both carvers excelled in the use of ishime. Compare a related ivory netsuke of Hotei in a bag by Mitsuhiro at Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke, 6 December 2014, Cologne, lot 869 (sold for EUR 18,600).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207507622-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 DEPICTING A PAIR OF SNAILSUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as two snails, the smaller crawling along the larger snail's shell, both with slimy bodies naturalistically rendered with crosshatch incision work, the shells subtly incised and stained. Generously excavated, asymmetrical himotoshi foot of the larger snail. Beautiful, deep honey-yellow patina to the underside.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: One tentacle of the smaller snail restored. Otherwise good condition with minor wear and age cracks.Provenance: Lempertz, Asian Art, 25 June 2021, Cologne, lot 906. German 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 24-B-0053). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A LARGE WOOD NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH A DRUMUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A large and boldly carved wood netsuke of a Dutchman posed as an islander, the tall man depicted standing, his knees slightly bent and arms reaching to the back supporting a hand drum carved with a triple tomo-e crest. The Dutchman is depicted almost naked, except for the later added clogs and a short loin cloth tied at the waist, his distended belly and ribs showing, the entire body carved in incised hair. His head is raised to the sky as he bursts into a hearty song, the amusing face carved with narrow eyes above a wide grin, framed by a lozenge wig, and topped by a hat with floral finial. Good 'chimney-type' himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 13.7 cmCondition: The legs and feet have been restored. Minor wear and some nibbling to the edge of the hat. Otherwise good condition and presenting very well.Provenance: From an old French private collection.Literature comparison:A very interesting comparison is provided by a wood netsuke of a standing islander, similarly posed, by Gessho, illustrated in Bandini, Rosemary (2020) The Larry Caplan Collection of Japanese Netsuke, no. 12.

A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A MISCHIEVOUS ONI, ATTRIBUTED TO IKKYUAttributed to Ikkyu, unsignedJapan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The muscular devil hunched forward, the right hand hiding a koban coin strung on a chain behind his back while with his left he makes the bekkako gesture (pulling one lid down), in order to tease his accuser. Dressed in a simple fundoshi, the devil's ferocious face in a wide grin below a broad nose and eyes inlaid with black wood, his long hair falling straight down his shoulders with two horns poking through the top. Natural himotoshi, the cord channel running through the between the right arm and body. Unsigned, however confidently attributed to Ikkyu of Nagoya (see literature comparisons).HEIGHT 6.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke depicting a sennin, by Ikkyu, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures (LNIA), Vol. 1, p. 513. Note the similar expression and use of inlays to the eyes. Also compare to a wood netsuke of a kappa with similar features, also unsigned and attributed to Ikkyu, illustrated in Bandini, Rosemary (2001) Expressions of Style, Netsuke as Art, Scholten Japanese Art, New York, p. 56, no. 71.

SERGEY OSIPOV: THE WATCHFUL OWLBy Sergey Osipov (b. 1968), signed with the artist's mark Russia, c. 2005-2006Amusingly carved and stained from Crimean juniper with an owl nestled within a hollow, its large alert eyes double inlaid with amber and horn, and the beak carved from honey horn. One side of the tree stump carved with mushrooms fashioned out of tagua nut, a crevice in the bark further detailed with a spider in African warthog tusk inlaid with a mother-of-pearl spider spinning its web. Generously excavated himotoshi to the back and signed on a sliver of amber with the artist's signature.With an ojime carved from tagua nut in the form of a mouse scaling a mushroom, the eyes of the rodent inlaid in jet stone.HEIGHT 5.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, acquired from a private collection in the UK.Sergey Osipov (b. 1968) was born in 1968 into the family of a Soviet army officer. Due to his father's occupation, he traveled the former Soviet Union back and forth. Nature left a deep imprint on his heart and still greatly influences his work. From 1985 he worked as a forest ranger, later deciding to study Forest Management at the Agrarian Academy, and eventually continuing his work in forestry as a forest engineer. In 1991, he decided to switch fields and work as an artist and later as a designer, carving netsuke from 1994. A significant part of his work is in the netsuke collection of HIH Princess Takamado.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.

TAMEKAZU: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO FISHERMEN FIGHTING AN OCTOPUSBy Tamekazu, signed Tamekazu 為一Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An intricately carved wood netsuke depicting a large octopus attacking two fishermen who incurred the wrath of the eight-armed cephalopod by trying to remove it from a large basket. One man is completely insnared by the tentacles of the creature, his robe opening up as he falls, exposing his buttocks as he topples over. The second man twisting in action, his robes flowing with the motion, pulling to no avail on a tentacle, bracing one foot on the basket for support. Natural himotoshi through the tangled mass of legs and tentacles. Signed on an inlaid tablet to the underside TAMEKAZU.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Provenance: Collection of C.H. Haviland. Drouot Paris, 6 July 1932, lot 342. French private collection, acquired from the above.Auction comparison:Compare a related inlaid wood netsuke of a tengu on a clam, by the same artist and signed Tamekazu, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke, 10 May 2017, London, lot 199 (sold for GBP 5,000).

TWO ANTLER OJIMEJapan, 19th centuryThe small bell finely stained and carved with a loop ring at the top. The seal type ojime carved with an elephant finial standing on a circular base decorated with a rinzu pattern along the side.HEIGHT 2.3 cm (the largest)Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and natural flaws.Museum comparison:Compare a closely related ivory seal ojime with an elephant, dated 1750-1850, in the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford University, accession number EA1956.3893.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related antler ojime in the shape of a bell, dated 19th century, illustrated in Sagemonoya (2002) Netsuke, Ojime & Masatoshi's Kabuki, p. 62, no. 187.

ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO: BIRTH OF A CROCODILEBy Alexander Derkachenko, signed with the artist's markUkraine, late 1990s to early 2000sFrom Alexander Derkachenko's “Birth” series. The young crocodile with neatly incised scales is nestled into an eggshell, hatching, the reptile carved from stained boxwood with inlaid painted amber eyes and the eggshell carved from mammoth tusk. With an ojime depicting a crocodile's eye, carved from stained boxwood and inlaid with amber. Both the netsuke and the ojime are signed by the artist.HEIGHT 5.4 cm (netsuke), HEIGHT 1.5 cm (ojime)Condition: Excellent condition.Provenance: From an Austrian private collection formed in the 1990s-early 2000s. Acquired from the artist directly.

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH COCKERELUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Standing, facing ahead and firmly holding a fighting rooster, the Dutchman is dressed in a short outer coat adorned with geometric motifs imitating the plumage of the restless bird, the breeches peering through, his stockings pulled high and decorated with a row of dark horn buttons to the back, all above traditional clogs. The face carved with a caricatured expression with protruding eyes and a long nose, framed by a lozenge wig and a broad plumed hat. Excellent and asymmetrical himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 9.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.Dutch merchants were the only Europeans permitted to live in Japan during most of the Edo period (1615-1868). They were confined to Dejima, a small man-made island in Nagasaki Bay. The “Southern Barbarian” (Nanban) Dutchman netsuke were developed at a time when few Japanese had encountered foreigners. The cock is a possible reference to the Dutch colony's pastime of cockfighting.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a dutchman with cockerel and trumpet, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 4 June 2021, Vienna, lot 223 (sold for EUR 4,803).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207508119-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 LACQUERED WOOD NETSUKE OF AN ONI TYING HIS FUNDOSHIUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An amusing and unusual wood netsuke of a red-lacquered oni holding the edge of his white-lacquer loin cloth under his chin, holding it in place with one hand, while yanking it tightly beneath his legs to the affect that his face is drawn up in an amusing cry, his eyes rolled back, tongue protruding showing the demon's sharp teeth. Natural himotoshi underneath the arm. HEIGHT 6.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and small chips to the white-lacquer lion clothThis unusual netsuke is a comical parody of a motif that commonly depicts elderly men mis-tying their fundoshi. The artist's sense of humor is clearly visible in both his choice of subject and manner of modeling, rendering the typically muscular oni with a rotund and pudgy figure. The use of lacquer, beautifully rubbed in some areas, is also very unusual.Literature comparison:The typical 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. M.90.186.18.Auction comparison:Compare a related marine ivory netsuke of a naked man, dated 19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 255 (sold for EUR 3,286).

A GOOD WOOD NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH CHILDUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Typically depicted with shoulder-length, curling hair and exaggerated features, clad in a coat with a pleated collar, carrying a boy on his back and a Chinese trumpet (lapa) in his right hand. Each carved with a beaming face, the Dutchman laughing at the little boy's antics, his eyes crinkling as a result. The wood bearing a fine dark patina, and with large asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 7 cmCondition: Good condition with minor typical wear and surface rubbing. An old, smoothened chip to the trumpet.In the Edo period, Dutch merchants were the only Europeans admitted to Japan, where they were confined to the island of Deshima. Interestingly, the lapa (trumpet) in this Dutchman's hand is also foreign, being of Chinese origin.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a Dutchman with child, 18th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 17 (sold for EUR 3,034).

MEIKEISAI HOJITSU: A FINE IVORY MASK NETSUKE OF OKINABy Meikeisai Hojitsu (c. 1790-1873), signed Hojitsu 法實Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Wilhelm, Gabor (2005) On the Continent, INSJ 25/1, p. 16, no. 2638.Finely carved, the wizened face of the elderly man detailed with elaborate, interconnecting wrinkles, the jaw made to look movable, the eyes and lips with polychrome pigments, the long beard flowing to the verso. The natural himotoshi formed by a twining cord linked to both sides. Signed HOJITSU.HEIGHT 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, small losses to the polychrome pigment, expected age cracks, and a small chip to the edge of the beard.Provenance: Nagel Auction, 13 November 2004, Stuttgart, lot 2638. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.According to F. Meinertzhagen, Meikeisai Hojitsu (c. 1790-1873) ranked among the great netsuke masters of the 19th century because of his “keen aesthetic perception combined with [his] supreme craftsmanship and versatility” (MCI, part A, p. 169).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0056). 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.

TWO VERY FINE MIXED METAL OJIME DEPICTING BIRDS AND FLOWERSJapan, 19th centuryThe oval ojime half silver and half shakudo, decorated in gold and silver takazogan with irises (shobu) and prunus blossoms. The iron ojime, rectangular in form, decorated with gold and silver takazogan paulownia leaves, flowers, and birds, signed on a rectangular reserve.HEIGHT 1.9 cm (the largest)Condition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Provenance: Van Ham, Netsuke & Japanische Kunst, 8 June 2017, Cologne, lots 1700 & 1701. A Belgian private collection, acquired from the above.

AN INLAID BLACK LACQUER FOUR-CASE INRO WITH AN OWL AND GOURDSUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of upright rectangular and oval section, bearing a matte black lacquer ground, finely worked in gold takamaki-e and hiramaki-e, as well as inlays of raden (mother-of-pearl) and aogai (iridescent shell), to depict a continuous image of a straw mat and leafy gourds issuing vines, an owl (fukuro) perched on top of the longest gourd which extends to the other side. The interior compartments of nashiji and red lacquer, and with gold fundame rims.With a fluted glass ojime and a wood kagamibuta netsuke with a shibuichi plate worked in gold nonume-zogan.HEIGHT 6.7 cm, LENGTH 5.4 cmCondition: The inro in good condition with surface wear and rubbing to lacquer, a few tiny nicks, and minuscule losses to inlays. The netsuke with nicks and dents to the bowl and losses to the zogan inlay.

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF HOTEI AT SETSUBUNUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Humorously carved as Hotei wearing an Okame mask on his head, pretending to be the Shinto goddess who regularly participates in the exorcism of oni on Setsubun day. The lucky god is carved standing on one foot, the other slightly raised, as he lifts one hand to fling a handful of soyabeans at the oni, the other hand holding a rice measure box (masu) with roasted beans. The face with a cheerful demeanor and a wide smile, flanked by thick, pendulous earlobes. Generously excavated himotoshi to the back. Similar examples are known by Suzuki Tokoku (1846-1913), though the present netsuke is likely by an earlier artist who may have been a pupil of Tokoku.HEIGHT 6.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear and traces of use. Minuscule nibbling to edges.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of Hotei at Setsubun, by Tokoku, at Lempertz, Netsuke, Inro and Sagemono, 7 June 2019, Cologne, lot 366 (sold for EUR 4,960).

MASANAO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TOAD WITH YOUNGBy a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Yamada, Ise province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Naturalistically carved, the large toad resting its rotund stomach on its front feet while sitting on its haunches, its young clambering on top of its back. The skin is finely rendered with raised, warty skin which smoothens along the belly showing the superb grain of the wood; the eyes are inlaid in lustrous dark horn. Natural himotoshi and signed to the underside MASANAO. HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear, a few cracks to the wood.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related boxwood study of a toad and young, signed Masanao, at Bonhams, Japanese Works of Art, 19 Sept 2008, New York, lot 5097 (sold for EUR 3,000).

A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING GOATUnsignedJapan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of compact form, carved as a recumbent goat with its head looking straight ahead, the forelegs tucked under, and the shaggy coat finely engraved with accentuated lines. The face with its characteristically long snout, eyes carved to the side, and with pleasingly curving horns. 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. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside.LENGTH 3.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and traces of use.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.

A VERY RARE AND LARGE IVORY NETSUKE OF BAIFUKU WITH HO-O BIRDUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Joly, Henri (1908) Legend in Japanese Art, p. 81.Joly, Henri L. (1912) The W. L. Behrens Collection, Part 1, Netsuke, no. 4558, illustrated on pl. LIX.Eskenazi (1984) Japanese Netsuke, Ojime, Inro, Lacquer-Ware, no. 38.Standing, his body twisted ever so gently as he holds a ho-o bird or peacock to his chest, one hand supporting the majestic bird's breast and the other placed gently on its tail feathers. He is dressed in a long voluminous robe with billowing sleeves which drape and fall elegantly over his frame. The mythical bird's feathers are carefully incised and stained to show the variation in its plumage. Good himotoshi to the back, generously excavated and placed at angle.HEIGHT 10.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and age cracks. Minuscule nibbling to edges and possibly a tiny chip to the edge of the bird's wing.Provenance: Ex-collection W. L. Behrens (1861-1913). Ex-collection W. Lewis. 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.Baifuku (in Chinese Mei Fuh) was a Chinese governor of Nan Ch'ang (Nansho-no-Jo), who, disgusted with the corruption then prevailing, resigned his post in 14 B.C. and retired to mount Hiko, in Yunnan, where he penetrated the secrets of the genii, and having drunk of the elixir of everlasting life, returned to his native Show Ch'un. After a short while, some genii and a Lwan bird (peacock or phoenix) swooped down from the skies and carried him away to the Taoists paradise (H. L Joly, Legend in Japanese Art, p. 80).Literature comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a foreigner with Chinese hat, with similar expression and headgear, in Joly, Henri L. (1912) The W. L. Behrens Collection, Part 1, Netsuke, no. 3301, illustrated on pl. XL.Auction comparison:This type of Lwan bird is rarely depicted in netsuke art and appears usually in combination with Dutchmen. Compare a related ivory netsuke of a Dutchman at Sotheby's, Japanese Works of Art, 10 April 1997, London, lot 404.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207508116-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.

MASANAO: A FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF FIVE GOURDS AND A FROGBy a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Yamada, Ise province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved in openwork with remarkable naturalism as five intertwining gourds, the gourds beautifully stained and polished and closely resembling the surface of a natural gourd. A small, charming frog made of antler is sitting peacefully atop the base of the largest gourd. Natural himotoshi. Signed to one gourd MASANAO.LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear. One inlaid pupil of the frog lost.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of five gourds, signed Masanao, in the Baur Collection, illustrated in Coullery, Marie-Therese / Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, p. 280, C 840.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of gourds, signed Masanao, illustrated in Kunsthandel Klefisch GMBH, Japanische Holzschitte und Kleinkunst, 31 March 2001, Cologne, lot 336.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2307517136-K).

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SENNIN WITH A SNAKEUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a standing sennin, supporting a writhing snake on his shoulder, one hand grabbing the reptile by its neck and the other holding holding a loose section of his sash by his waist. Dressed in an artemisia leaf robe opening at the chest, the sennin's expression is boldly crafted, the mouth agape dramatically, all below wide glaring eyes. Generously excavated asymmetrical himotoshi to the back, the larger hole running through a 'natural' opening of the sleeve. The ivory bearing a light-yellow patina to the back with streaks of honey-gold.HEIGHT 7.4 cmCondition: Good condition with associated surface wear (particularly around the himotoshi) and natural age cracks. One foot with a repair.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-0060). 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 INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAMUnsigned Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An amusing study depicting a kappa with its left hindleg stuck inside the jaws of a hamaguri clam. The kappa's eyes are inlays of bone within gilt metal surrounds, with stained pin prick pupils which peer to the left. The hinge of the shells shows inlays of shell and the barely visible flesh of the clam in the back is inlaid in bone. The hollow section of the kappa's head, which holds its vital fluids, is inlaid in mother-of-pearl. The mythical creature's shell is finely carved and the unarmored body parts are covered in masterful ukibori pimples. Himotoshi through the underside. This model was frequently carved by Komin, however the rather idiosyncratic gilt metal surrounds used for the eyes are quite typical of Hidari Issan.LENGTH 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition. Minor wear to the gilt metal surrounds of the eyes.Provenance: British collection. Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 168. German private collection, acquired from the above.

A DRAMATIC WOOD NETSUKE OF A NOH DANCER, ATTRIBUTED TO MIWAAttributed to Miwa, unsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The actor wearing a demonic mask and standing hunched over, one foot raised and arms outspread in a dynamic posture. The mouth is opened, nostrils flared, brows furrowed, and the eyes are inlaid in stained bone. The square sleeves are extended like wings as the actor grips the hems with boldly carved fingers; the feet are similarly enveloped. The frightening expression is accentuated by long, straight hair which falls to the actor's feet. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. Unsigned, however the type of wood used, strong expression, and use of inlays, suggests the Miwa lineage.HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and small nick to the base of her trousers.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.

MASANAO SHINZAN: A FINE INLAID BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGONBy Masanao Shinzan (1904-1982), signed Masanao Shinzan 正直辰山Japan, Yamada, Ise province, c. 1976Published: Hurtig, Bernard (1976) Contemporary Netsuke, in The Journal of International Collectors Society 4/1, p. 27Finely carved with meticulously rendered scales, the dragon coiling around itself in a powerful stance and releasing a mighty roar. Its sharp claws and flames emanating from its body displaying the creature's magnificent power, its fierce expression baring sharp teeth in its snarl with eyes of dark-horn inlays and two fangs of inlaid bone. Natural himotoshi and signed within an oval reserve MASANAO SHINZAN.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor expected wear.Provenance: From the private collection of Denis Szeszler, New York. Private collection of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia (1921-2019), Switzerland, acquired from the above on 9 November 1990 at a Netsuke symposium in Frankfurt, Germany. A copy of the collector's notes, confirming the provenance above and dating, and stating a purchase price of CHF 2,120 accompanies this lot.Masanao Shinzan (1904-1982) was a member of the Masanao family of Yamada, a family of carvers that went back four generations. He carved solely from tsuge (boxwood). After several financial setbacks, Shinzan was compelled to carve for the commercial market. However, at 69 a dealer in Hakone began sponsoring the artist to produce higher quality pieces. To distinguish these later pieces from his earlier commercial carvings, Shinzan would sign his highest quality pieces 'Shinzan Masanao,' which the present lot exemplifies. The Masanao lineage has been carried on by Shinzan's daughter Masami, who is the last surviving member of the family and an active carver to this day.Auction comparison:Compare a related boxwood netsuke of a coiling dragon by an earlier member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao, dated early 19th century, at Christie's, Japanese Art and Design, 20 June 2001, London, lot 223 (sold for GBP 5,523).

A FINE ANTLER NETSUKE OF ASHINAGA WITH A TENAGA MONKEYUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryAmusingly carved as a long-armed Tenaga monkey holding a staff and sitting on the back of the long-legged Ashinaga, wearing a leafy loincloth and gripping a leg and hand to stabilize Tenaga. The details are superbly carved, the eyes of the monkey inlaid with reddish horn. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 11.6 cmCondition: Restorations to both legs and the staff of Tenaga. Otherwise good condition and presenting very well.Literature comparison:Compare a related antler netsuke of Tenaga and Ashinaga, illustrated in Bushell, Raymond Netsuke (1975) Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 166, no. 417.Museum comparison: Compare a related antler netsuke of Tenaga catching an octopus, formerly in the Trumpf collection, now located in the Linden Museum Stuttgart, inventory number OA 18674.Auction comparison:Compare a related antler obihasami netsuke of Tenaga catching an octopus, unsigned, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 280 (sold for EUR 6,100).

A RARE MARINE TOOTH NETSUKE OF KIYOHIMEUnsignedJapan, Osaka, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and stained as the monstrous Kiyohime tightly wrapped around the Dojo-ji bell, her snake-like tail encircling the gong as she perches herself on the domed crown of the bell. The face with an enigmatic smile; one hand holding the striker while the other rests gently on the bell, supporting her weight. Dressed in a loose robe open at the chest revealing her emaciated body, the skin hanging loose over her gaunt frame, the hair parted down the middle, falling straight down her back. Himotoshi through the side of the bell. The marine tooth bearing a beautiful lustrous polish.HEIGHT 4.8 cmCondition: Good condition with old surface wear and expected age cracks.In this tragic story, Kyohime fell in love with a Buddhist monk named Anchin but was rejected. In despair she pursues the monk and transforms herself into a Hannya-like demon with a snake body and horned head. The pursued Anchin hides under a temple bell. When she discovers him there, she wraps her snake body around the bell and the glow of her passion melts the metal and burns the monk hiding in the bell.Literature comparison:Compare a related sperm whale tooth netsuke, attributed to Ogasawara Issai of Osaka, illustrated in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2008) Such Stuff as Dreams are made on. Japanese netsuke from the Willi G. Bosshard collection, no. 6.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related marine tooth netsuke of Kiyohime, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28th April 2023, Vienna, lot 5 (sold for EUR 2,340).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.

KASHUN: A WOOD NETSUKE OF TAIRA NO TADAMORI CAPTURING THE OIL THIEFBy Kashun, signed Kashun 花春Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Dynamically and powerfully carved to depict Taira no Tadamori grabbing the oil thief Abura Bozu from behind. Tadamori's expression is fierce, expecting an evil demon, while he grabs the oil thief by the arm, who is holding an ewer. Abura Bozo's expression is surprised, one foot lifted – he is caught red-handed. Unbeknownst to Tadamori the man is nothing but a poor old soul, stealing a tiny bit of oil from the many lamps in the forest near the Yasaka no Yashioro temple. The emaciated thief is dressed modestly, in contrast to Tadamori who is wearing an eboishi hat and is dressed in splendid robes. Generously excavated asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and signed within an oval reserve KASHUN.HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Loss to one foot which has been smoothened over time. Repairs to the hand holding the oil vessel.Provenance. Galerie Zacke, Vienna. Swiss private collection formed from the 1980s-2000s, acquired from the above. A copy of the folio from Galerie Zacke accompanies this lot.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

MIWA: A FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A WOMAN WASHING HER HAIRBy Miwa, signed Miwa 三輪Japan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Kneeling over a round basin, the woman holding her long hair in one hand while combing it with bone-inlaid brush as it dangles in the water. A towel carved from stained bone is draped over the side of the basin. Her robe is resting around her waist, crumpled in large folds, detailed with geometric patterns and kiku (chrysanthemum) designs. A single himotoshi to the underside and signed MIWA to the basin.LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only minor wear.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a woman washing, signed Miwa, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 568.

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF INO HAYATA AND MINAMOTO YORIMASA KILLING THE NUEUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved with the two figures standing over the wild nue, Hayata placing his knee on the back of the monster and dealing the killing blow with his sword as the creature's snake tail deals a final vengeful bite to the hat of the hero. Yorimasa, the archer who struck down the beast in the Emperor's palace, stands proudly next to Hayata with his bow by his side, having already fetched his arrow from the felled monster. Good, asymmetrical himotoshi through the back of Yorimasa.HEIGHT 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Provenance: Collection of ambassador Joseph Raymond Baylin de Monbel, and thence by descent in the same family. Joseph Raymond Baylin de Monbel (1846-1917) was the French ambassador to Tangier, London, and the Netherlands in the late 19th century.This netsuke illustrates a popular legend of the nue monster that had terrorized the building in which the Emperor slept until it was killed one night by the noted archer Minamoto Yorimasa (1106–1180) and Ino Hayata (dates unknown). Emperor Konoe (1139-1155) had become ill due to a strange presence heralded by a black cloud over the palace. The warrior Minamoto Yorimasa was sent to investigate and discovered a peculiar creature, called a nue. The monster had the face of a monkey, body of a tiger, and the tail of a snake. The poet warrior wounded the creature which was subsequently killed by Hayata. Yorimasa's actions won him the court lady Ayame no Mae, who the Emperor gave him in marriage for ridding the capital of the menacing beast.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of Yorimasa and Hataya killing the nue, at Lempertz, Asian Art, 11 December 2021, Cologne, lot 318 (sold for EUR 2,750).

MASANAO: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE DEPICTING THE TRANSFORMATION OF URASHIMA TAROBy a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Yamada, Ise province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the seated fisherman lifting the lid of the treasure box (tametebako) gifted to him by the Dragon King, his face bearing a bewildered expression as he is transformed into an elderly man. A wisp of smoke issuing from the box which held the 300 years he spent in the underwater palace. His brows are wrinkled, and his mouth is opened exposing finely incised teeth. The himotoshi naturally formed by the gap between the box and Urashima's leg. Signed to the underside of the box MASANAO.LENGTH 3.9 cmCondition: Good condition with minor expected wear. An old repair to one hand.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.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…

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SKELETONUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Superbly carved as a seated skeleton with its knees tucked in, hands folded, feet crossed, and chin resting on its hands in a pensive manner. The details are realistically rendered, the chest cavity is superbly carved in openwork. Natural himotoshi. The ivory bearing an attractive color, superbly stained and polished.HEIGHT 5.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.Provenance: Italian private collection, acquired from Pierre-Eric Becker, Cannes, on 12 December 1998. Austrian private collection, acquired from the above.Museum comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a skeleton seated in the same pose, unsigned, dated 19th century, in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, accession number M.91.250.120, illustrated in Bushell, Raymond (1961) The Netsuke Handbook of Ueda Reikichi, p. 81, no. 64.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a skeleton, inscribed Gyokko, dated 19th century, at Bonhams, The James A. Rose Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 17 September 2013, New York, lot 2083 (sold for USD 18,750).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 24-B-0104).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.

GUY SHAW: SUNFLOWERBy Guy Shaw (1951-2003), signed with the artist's initial GSEngland, 1994The large, wilted flower head of round, domed form with a thick stalk and two leaves, meticulously carved with tiny disk florets radiating from the center, the ray florets have fallen, leaving only the disc with bracts to the circumference. The lyrical, playful grace of the two leaves coming close to each other above the blossom, as if they were seeking this closeness, is perhaps the most beautiful expression of this piece. A magnificent, pleasurable work of meditative and contemplative nature. The artist's meticulous perseverance can be observed in every single cut, there is no blunder to be discovered nor any omission. Natural himotoshi formed by the gentle swing of the curved stem. Signed to the end of the stem within a 18K gold-inlaid plaque GS.LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: A repair to the stem. Otherwise, excellent condition.Provenance: Private collection of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia (1921-2019), Switzerland, acquired directly from the artist on 23 May 1994 at Hotel Lutetia, Paris, during the Netsuke Convention. A copy of the collector's notes, confirming the provenance above, and stating a discounted purchase price of CHF 7,525 (or approx. EUR 9,500 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing), accompanies this lot.On the subject of the present lot, Guy Shaw notes "Sunflowers captivate me, especially their powerful lines and deep colors."Guy Shaw (1951-2003) was one of Britain's finest netsuke carvers. Shaw attended the Bournemouth College of Art and sometime after graduation was introduced to netsuke via the collection of his landlord, Francis Dinley. Netsuke carving attempts a visual replication of nature, place and time, and it was in this field that Shaw, with his lifelong love of the wild, found his vocation.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a sunflower, by Guy Shaw, illustrated by Zacken, Wolfmar (May, 1997) Netsuke: Von großen alten Meistern und modernen, p. 70, no. 105.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related boxwood netsuke of a sunflower, by Guy Shaw, at Lempertz, Asian Art, 11 June 2022, Cologne, lot 421 (sold for EUR 3,780).

A FINE AND LARGE LACQUERED GOURD NETSUKE WITH A CHUBBY HARE AMONGST AUTUMN GRASSESUnsignedJapan, late 19th centuryA dual function netsuke serving both as a toggle and a container for powdered ink. The lacquerer has chosen a remarkably large and attractively shaped natural gourd bearing a beautiful grain. The design is lacquered in mostly gold takamaki-e and hiramaki-e with a chubby rabbit in a field of tall grasses and blossoming kiku (chrysanthemum). Banded at the waist with a silver twisted cord with a loose ring cord attachment serving as the himotoshi and finished with a silver chrysanthemum fitting and screwed stopper.HEIGHT 7.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Charles Greenfield. Helmut Laudenbach, Munich, 1985. Private collection of Heidi Haupt-Battaglia (1921-2019), Switzerland, acquired from the above on 8 February 1985. A copy of the collector's notes, confirming the provenance above, and stating a purchase price of CHF 3,300 (or approx. EUR 5,400 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing), accompanies this lot. The original label from Helmut Laudenbach, Munich, is attached to the collector's notes.Museum comparison:Compare a closely related lacquered gourd netsuke, formerly in the Avery Brundage collection, in the San Francisco Asian Art Museum, accession no. B70Y156.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related lacquered gourd netsuke, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 313 (sold for EUR 2,102).

SHIGEKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TIGERBy Shigekazu, signed Shigekazu 重一Japan, Tanba Province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a seated male tiger (tora) with a beautifully worked fur coat, the tiger stripes rendered with polished areas against the neatly incised hairwork, the docile feline turning to its left, rather amusingly trying to appear like a powerful creature, its mouth closed with fangs visible at the corner, and the enigmatic, somber eyes inlaid with lustrously polished, brown horn. The underside shows the well-carved paws and the signature within an oval reserve SHIGEKAZU – a rarely encountered pupil of Shugasai Toyokazu who is widely regarded as the most accomplished pupil of Naito Toyomasa (1773-1856), founder of the Tanba school of carvers.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: A tiny, old chip to the edge of one paw. A section of the tail has been lost with associated repair. Minor touchup to the right ear.Provenance: From an old private collection in Geneva, Switzerland.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a tiger by Toyokazu at Bonhams Cornette de Saint Cyr, Myth, Mirth and Magic – Important Netsuke and Sagemono from the Guy de Lasteyrie Collection, 14 June 2023, Paris, lot 67 (sold for EUR 15,360).

IKKOSAI: A VERY RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF WASOBEI IN THE LAND OF LILLIPUTBy 'Saru' Ikkosai, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved, Wasobei sitting cross-legged, contemplatively smoking his kiseru (pipe) as two Lilliputians carry his tabako-ire with kiseruzutsu, pouch and ashtray netsuke, all attached to a carrying pole. His face is stern as he considers the implications of a land where his size commands respect, his sword strung to his side and the focused eyes inlaid with reddish horn. Two himotoshi to the underside. Signed IKKOSAI.LENGTH 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear, very few natural age cracks, a tiny chip to the edge of the bow on Wasobei's head.The story of Shikaiya Wasobei was published by an author under the pseudonym Yukokushi in 1774, titled Ikoku Kidan Wasobei ('Wasobei: Strange Tales from Distant Lands'). Known as the Japanese Gulliver, Wasobei was a wealthy merchant from Nagasaki, who traveled to six of the three-thousand worlds of the Buddhist Universe. The first translation of the story was presented to the Asian Art Society of Japan in 1879 by Basil Hall Chamberlain, and remains the only translation. Chamberlain drew several similarities to Jonathan Swift's book Gulliver's Travels, which came out 50 years earlier than Ikoku Kidan's Wasobei in 1726, but concluded that while the authors may have drawn from similar inspirations, Yukokushi never came into contact with Swift's work.The present scene is taken from part two of Wasobei's story, Ikoku Saiken Wasobei Kohen ('Wasobei II: Rediscovery of Distant Lands'), which was published in 1779 by Sawai Iro. According to Diuewke Eijer, Wasobei encounters the land of the Lilliputians in this story, however Sawai Iro's book has yet to be translated. For more discussion on the story of Wasobei, see Eijer, Diuewek (2023), Wasobei L'Enigmatique, in Le Bulletin Association Franco Japonaise, no. 156, p. 26-38.For a detailed discussion of the artist see INSJ Vol. 39, no. 3, Fall 2019, pp. 29-34. The artist only very rarely carved netsuke depicting people or legendary figures.Literature comparison:Compare a related depiction of Wasobei wearing his sword and nestled into the hand of a giant in the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam, accession number AK-MAK-1133.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2301300082-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.

ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO: DARUMA DOLL WITH EN SUITE OJIMEBy Alexander Derkachenko, signed with the artist's markUkraine, late 1990s to early 2000sA fine and humorous stained boxwood netsuke depicting a Daruma doll completely enveloped in its robe, the hands tucked under his large face as he yawns languorously, his eyes wide and rolled back under furrowed brows in an exaggerated manner of a man desperately in need of rest, flanked by ears with pendulous lobes. His eyes and teeth are inlaid in mammoth tusk and the robe is decorated with butterflies interspersed among three dots. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and signed with the artist's signature within an oval reserve.With an en suite ojime in the form of a contemporary Daruma doll enveloped in a red robe.HEIGHT 4.6 cm (netsuke), 1.5 cm (ojime)Condition: Excellent condition.Provenance: From an Austrian private collection formed in the 1990s-early 2000s.

RYUHO: A VERY RARE SOLID CORAL NETSUKE OF A BOY AND CATBy Ryuho, signed Ryuho 龍峯Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Carved from a choice piece of bright-red coral, depicting a boy on all fours giggling as a cat struggling to escape his tight hold, clambering over his shoulder. The boy is dressed in a robe tied at the waist with a sash suspending a tiny kinchaku (pouch) to the back. Small himotoshi and signed to the front of the robe RYUHO – likely a pupil of Ryukei II, who excelled in the use of various exotic materials.LENGTH 5.5 cmWEIGHT 45.3 gCondition: Good condition with wear, minor nibbling, and imperfections such as natural fissures to the material. Chips to the cat's left ear, the boy's right foot and some minuscule nibbling to the boy's left ear and the fingers of the left hand.

A SUPERB AND LARGE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH A TRUMPETUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The Dutchman carved standing tall, looking up with a quizzical expression on his face. He is holding a Chinese trumpet (lapa) in one hand, and a fan in the other. Dressed in a long coat decorated with scrolling cloud design on a stained and stippled ground, the sleeves of his undershirt are incised with foliate patterns and pleated to the cuffs. His exaggerated facial features with protruding eyes under a broad nose and grimacing mouth are framed by a lozenge wig and topped by a broad brim hat incised with scrolling vines and topped with a peacock's feathers. Generously excavated, asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and side. The ivory with a dark, naturally grown, honey-gold patina.HEIGHT 12.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and age cracks. Some rubbing and wear to incised details.Provenance: 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 related ivory netsuke of a Dutchman with a captured deer, of near identical size (12.7 cm) and with very similar detailing to the robe, dated to the 18th century, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 97 (sold for GBP 21,250).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207506607-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.

MASAKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED SNAKEBy Masakazu, signed Masakazu 正一Japan, Gifu or Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the compact snake coiling around itself with finely incised, grooved scales, its head resting on top of its tail. Its gaze fixed in front, the eyes double inlaid in pale and dark horn, its forked tongue extended. Natural himotoshi. Signed to the base within an oval reserve MASAKAZU.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor wear.The snake (hebi or mi), the sixth sign of the zodiac, is assigned to the 4th month and the hours between 9am and 11am. In popular belief, a living snake is considered a good omen, while a dead snake announces misfortune. In Buddhism the snake is a symbol of sensuality, jealousy and hatred. In netsuke art it is also often depicted because of the elegant curves of its body and the creative possibilities.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a coiled snake with double-inlaid eyes, signed Masakazu, illustrated in Willhelm, Gabor (2000) On the Continent, INSJ, vol. 20/4, p. 28, no. 258. Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a snake, signed Masakazu, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 422.

AN OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF FUKUROKUJU PLAYING KEMARIUnsignedJapan, Osaka, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely stained and carved ivory netsuke depicting Fukurokuju balancing a kemari ball, his left hand stroking his beard as he strides forward, lifting his robe above his raised leg, and kicking the small ball. He seems to greatly enjoy himself, and his facial features are carved to depict his playful demeanor. The Lucky God is dressed in voluminous robes decorated with karakusa and incised at the hems with geometric patterns. Generously excavated asymmetrical himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 5.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and few expected age cracks.Kemari, a popular athletic game during the Heian period (794-1185), is one of the earliest versions of football and it is a non-competitive game where the goal is to keep the ball in the air.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of Fukurokuju playing kemari, by Hidemasa, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 38 (sold for EUR 6,952).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2309200782-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.