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TOMOKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EATING PERSIMMONSWorkshop of Kano Tomokazu, signed Tomokazu 友一Japan, Gifu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely and naturalistically carved as a monkey (saru) holding a leafy branch of ripe persimmons bearing two fruits, the simian taking a bite into one, its upper lip and brows slightly arched as a result, producing an amusing expression. The wood is beautifully stained and polished, the fur is neatly engraved, and the eyes are double-inlaid in pale and dark horn. Natural himotoshi formed by one leg which also bears the signature within the typical oval reserve TOMOKAZU.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. The left ear with a loss and associated repair.Provenance: From an old French private collection.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a monkey eating fruit, also signed Tomokazu, at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from the Adrienne Barbanson Collection, 13 May 2013, London, lot 19 (sold for GBP 6,000).

MASAKAZU: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY AND TORTOISEBy Masakazu, signed Masakazu正一Japan, Nagoya or Gifu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bandini, Rosemary (2001) Expressions of Style, Netsuke as Art, Scholten Japanese Art, New York, p. 130, no. 160.A very finely carved, stained wood netsuke of a monkey crouching on top of a tortoise, gripping the edge of the reptile's carapace and pointing its finger and thumb, preparing to prod at its head. The tortoise in return is almost entirely retracted into its shell. The eyes of the monkey are double inlaid in pale and dark horn. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed within an oval reserve MASAKAZU – likely a pupil of Kano Tomokazu.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear. Few tiny age cracks. One inlaid eye possibly replaced.Provenance: Scholten Japanese Art, New York, 2001. A German private collection, acquired from the above.As noted in the publication where the present netsuke is illustrated, the subject matter here references a famous legend: “This combination of creatures refers to the folk tale of the monkey and the jellyfish. Ryujin, Dragon King of the Sea, asked Kurage, a servant in the form of a turtle, to fetch him the liver of a monkey to cure an ailment. Kurage found a monkey for this purpose and transported him on his back, but the wily simian jumped off and escaped, leaving him to return empty-handed. Ryujin was so furious with his servant that he lashed him until his shell and bones were all reduced to jelly”.Literature comparison:A near-identical wood netsuke by Masakazu is illustrated in Coullery, Marie-Therese / Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, pp. 336-337, no. C 1053.Auction comparison: Compare to a closely related wood netsuke by Tomokazu at Bonhams, The Jamese A. Rose Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 17 September 2013, New York, lot 2021 (sold for USD 16,250).

A VERY RARE TSUISHU AND LACQUER TWO-CASE INRO, MOST LIKELY COMMISSION BY A DUTCH SETTLERUnsignedJapan, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-case inro bearing a superb tsuishu (carved red lacquer) frame with alternating asanoha and manji designs, with a circular panel to either side, one featuring a view of a Dutch ship entering Nagasaki bay, decorated in gold and silver hiramaki and takamaki-e, with some nashiji. The panel on the verso bearing a nashiji ground and decorated in gold and colored takamaki-e with a zodiac (junishi) compass, the central roundel decorated with gold karakusa and the needle pointing at the rat (nezumi). Most likely this inro was commissioned by a Dutch settler born in the year of the rat.With a matching gold-lacquered ojime and wood and lacquer kagamibuta netsuke decorated with European enameling and depicting scenes with foreigners. The netsuke with the initials 'A.J.' to the top and the wood bowl lacquered with a blossoming and budding flower.HEIGHT 6.3 cm, LENGTH 7.3 cmDIAMETER (the netsuke) 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor wear.Provenance: Sotheby's, 17 December 1951, London. A noted private collection, acquired from the above, assembled by the previous owner's great-grandfather and thence by descent. With old collection labels to the top case.

SHUGETSU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TORTOISEBy Hara Shugetsu, signed Shugetsu 舟月Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Naturalistically carved as a tortoise with its limbs almost entirely retracted within its carapace, its shell rendered with impressive layering. Beneath its shell, its legs and head covered in minutely etched scales and its feet with large claws. Its eyes are inlaid with buffalo horn. The cord attachment in the form of an eyelet, inset into the removable scale within the carapace. Signed to the base SHUGETSU.LENGTH 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and minuscule nibbling to the edges.

YOSHISHIGE: A SMALL EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A TORTOISEBy Yoshishige, signed Yoshishige 吉重Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A simple, finely carved, and tactile wood netsuke depicting a tortoise almost completely retracted within its carapace. The outer shell is decorated with neatly arranged hexagonal patterns and the underside shows the retracted limbs and head, covered in minutely etched scales. The cord attachment in the form of an eyelet, inset into the removable scale within the carapace. Signed to the base YOSHISHIGE– a rare artist whose work rarely appears.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear, traces of use, minor ship to the edge of the himotoshi section and minuscule nibbling to edges.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO TORTOISESUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a large tortoise stretching its neck to face its young clambering on top of its back, the carapaces neatly detailed and eyes minutely inlaid in dark horn. Natural himotoshi.LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. The larger tortoise with tiny chips to the edge of the carapace and one small loss to one toe.

MASAYOSHI: A RARE MINIATURE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF KANZAN AND JITTOKUBy Sato Masayoshi (1819-1865), signed Masayoshi 正義Japan, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A miniature wood netsuke, possibly intended for a child, depicting the two famous immortals Kanzan (Hanshan) and Jittoku (Shide), the latter holding a broom, each dressed in finely carved and voluminous robes with long draping sleeves, their expression radiating with wisdom and humor. The back with small himotoshi and the neatly incised signature MASAYOSHI – a rare and previously unrecorded subject by the Nagoya carver Sato Masayoshi (1819-1865).HEIGHT 2.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and few old microscopic nicks here and there.Provenance: Ex-collection Irene Segeler, Zurich. Irene Segeler specialized in collecting tiny children's netsuke, acquiring over 80 examples, which is quite remarkable as they are exceptionally rare. A few pieces from her collection are illustrated in Children's Netsuke (2001), The International Netsuke Society Journal (INSJ), vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 26-30.

A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF ONO NO KOMACHIUnsignedJapan, Nagoya, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Ono no Komachi, one of the 6 great poets of the 9th century, once a beautiful and vibrant woman, is depicted here as an old woman seated on the floor with a large straw hat on her back and a gnarled cane in her left hand, her right hand clutching a pouch. Dressed in a tattered robe decorated to the hem with a geometric design, her long hair, parted in the middle, falls over her back. The deep-reddish cherry wood bearing a superb patina. Good himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 3 cmCondition: Losses to the staff and some minor wear, otherwise in good condition.Ono no Komachi was a Japanese waka poet, one of the Rokkasen (six best waka poets of the early Heian period) and was renowned for her extraordinary beauty. Several legends tell of her mistreatment of her many lovers. In the arts, she is often depicted as an old, withered hag and has thus become a symbol of the impermanence of beauty.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related boxwood netsuke of Ono no Komachi, signed Masakatsu, illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 225, no. 690.

MASATOMO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF FUKUROKUJUBy Masatomo, signed Masatomo 正友Japan, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)The God of Longevity carved standing with his arms together in the front, enveloped in his loose-fitting robe with voluminous folds, secured at the waist with a belt, a small fan attached to it, and wearing a cowl over his characteristically elongated head, the face with a cheerful expression as he lets out a hearty laugh, the facial features neatly detailed, the patina dark and polished, asymmetrical himotoshi to the back passing through the base.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and a tiny, old chip to the edge of one foot. Beautiful, deep patina.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke signed Masatomo at Lempertz, Netsuke aus der Sammlung Kolodotschko II, 6 December 2014, lot 686 (sold for 4,464 EUR).

ITTAN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN PEERING THROUGH CLOUDSBy Ittan, signed Ittan 一旦 with kakihanJapan, Nagoya, c. 1850, Edo period (1615-1868)A powerful wood netsuke of the thunder god Raijin squatting, leaning forward to peer through a hole in the swirling clouds supporting him. The oni-like deity carved with muscular arms and legs with finely detailed clawed feet. His drum is suspended from his neck and resting on his back, and his head is finely detailed with horns and curly hair. His face is set with a furious expression, his furrowed brows visible from the side and his fierce eyes visible through the hole in the clouds. One fine himotoshi to the base of the clouds exiting through the swirl design behind the deity. Signed along the underside ITTAN with the artist's characteristic kakihan.LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wearProvenance: Ex-collection Randon. Piasa, 1 June 2005, Paris, lot 115. A private collection in France, acquired from the above. Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of Raijin peering through the clouds, signed Ittan, illustrated in Coullery, Marie-Therese / Newstead, Martin S. (1977) The Baur Collection, p. 61, C 17.

MASAKAZU: A RARE NAGOYA SCHOOL KARAKURI (TRICK) WOOD NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONIBy Masakazu, signed Masakazu 正一Japan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Superbly carved as a large rock with two oni cowering and seeking shelter within its crevices, their horns inlaid in stained bone, the rock opening to reveal two halves hinged into a central piece which is finely carved with the demon queller Shoki sitting next to his sword and throwing roasted beans to drive the oni away. Signed MASAKAZU to the interior of the rock. The central himotoshi ringed in bone underneath.HEIGHT 3.5 cm, LENGTH 7 cm (when opened)Condition: Excellent condition, minor typical wear.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.The present netsuke was likely carved as a talisman for the Setsubun festival which is celebrated during the first day of spring and includes the rite of oni-yarai or mame-maki, where roasted beans are thrown at oni to rid the coming year of any demons and disease-bringing spirits.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of Shoki and oni by Masakazu at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 27 May 2022, Vienna, lot 237 (sold for EUR 6,952).Also compare a related karakuri netsuke by Kagetoshi at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 160 (sold for EUR 6,952).

A TSUISHU LACQUER FOUR-CASE INRO DEPICTING KYOYU AND SOFU, WITH EN SUITE NETSUKE AND OJIMEUnsignedJapan, 18th-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of tall rectangular form with a lenticular profile, finely carved in relief with Kyoyu washing his ears in the waterfall surrounded by impressive rockwork with pine branches and bamboo, and further with finely incised manji and asanoha. The reverse with Sofu, holding his ox by one horn, standing beneath a tall pine with similarly decorated grounds. Each frame is set within the recess of a geometric frame surrounded by etched brocade patterns. The upper case decorated with a central pine branch within the recess of a similar frame, and the base with a manji diaper.The en suite tsuishu netsuke in the form of a star-shaped Chinese low table, with the upper recess decorated with a literati looking up at the moon with his attendant beneath a gnarled pine tree. Further with a mixed metal ojime decorated with kiku (chrysanthemum) blossoms beneath a cloudy moonlit sky bearing the artist's signature in an oval reserve Kagenori.HEIGHT 9.4 cm, LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and traces of use to the interior. The ojime and netsuke similarly in very good condition with only minor typical wear.Provenance: Ex-collection of Donald Snow, United States. The interior with an old Japanese label.Gyo was among of the most highly esteemed of the ancient Chinese emperors. He abdicated the throne upon hearing the plight of the poor hermit named Xu You (Jap. Kyoyu). Upon abdicating the throne, Gyo offered his throne to the hermit, but after hearing the emperor's offer, Xu You immediately traveled to Eisen River to wash his ears free of the temptation the emperor had filled them with. As he was washing out his ears the hermit Chao Fu (Jap. Sofu) met him, leading an ox he intended to bathe in the same waterfall. However, after speaking with Xu You he realized he could not bathe the animal in such dirty waters, calmly moving on in search of cleaner water.This story is often recounted as an illustration of the Daoist ideal of nothingness, but it was also popular among members of the military class as an anecdote with a wry, cynical attitude toward worldly success or failure; this same story subsequently was made a frequent theme of paintings done in the Chinese style.

MASAKAZU: A NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A COWERING ONI DURING SETSUBUNBy Masakazu, signed Masakazu 正一Japan, Nagoya, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The oni cowering underneath a kasa (straw hat) trying to shield himself from a barrage of roasted beans being thrown at him during the oni-yarai ceremony at Setsubun day. The worn kasa is executed with intricate detail and is carved with two roasted beans in high relief. The body of the oni underneath shows extremely fine carving with powerfully accentuated muscles and a neatly incised tiger skin loincloth. The visible eye is double inlaid in bone. 'Natural' himotoshi through the limbs and signed MASAKAZU. Beautiful, dark patina.LENGTH 3.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear. Fine patina.Auction comparison:Compare a near-identical wood netsuke by Masakazu sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 64 (sold for EUR 3,900).

MASAHIDE: AN AMUSING TANBA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A RUNNING SHISHIBy Masahide, signed Masahide 正秀Japan, Tanba province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Facing ahead, the shishi running with an intent expression as it sprints with its forepaws drawn in and its hindlegs outstretched. The fur finely executed with incision work and staining. The Buddhist lion wears an amusingly elaborate hairstyle and has finely carved curls. The paws crisply carved in the Tanba style and with a loose ball within the shishi's mouth. Himotoshi to the underbelly and signed within an oval reserve to the side MASAHIDE.LENGTH 5.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear.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. Thence by descent within the same family.Masahide is recorded by Meinertzhagen (The Card Index, p. 4111) as working in the style of Toyomasa, making both figures and animals.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a running shishi by Masahide at Sotheby's, The Betty Jahss Collection of Netsuke Part I, 13 June 1991, London, lot 101.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of two fighting shishi, by Toyokazu, from the same collection, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 82 (sold for EUR 6,320).

TOYOKAZU: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A SEATED MONKEYBy Shugasai Toyokazu, signed Toyokazu 豊一Japan, Sasayama, Tanba province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Moss, Sydney L (2006) More Things in Heaven and Earth: Japanese Netsuke and Ojime, p. 106-107, no. 952.Very finely carved and warmly stained, depicting a seated monkey (saru) with its hands resting on its outstretched legs with its feet clinched. The simian's large eyes are inlaid in beautifully translucent pale and dark horn, and its fur coat is rendered with neatly stained and engraved lines. The natural himotoshi formed by the hollow between its touching feet. Signed within the typical oval reserve in neatly incised characters TOYOKAZU.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor wear.Shugasai Toyokazu is widely regarded as the most accomplished pupil of Naito Toyomasa (1773-1856). Toyokazu usually carved monkeys in combination with a peach or chestnut. The present example showing the monkey in a seated position can be considered rare and is more commonly associated with Naito Toyomasa.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a seated monkey holding a peach, signed Toyokazu, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 87 (sold for EUR 12,640). Compare a related wood netsuke of a group of three fighting monkeys, signed Toyomasa, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 155 (sold for 85,250 GBP).

A BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF WASHERWOMANBy Hakusen, signed Hakusen 白仙 Japan, Edo (Tokyo), c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)The woman slightly bent over a round tub as she beats her clothes clean with a pestle. The mortar naturalistically fashioned with a simulated carved crack held together with two bone staples, one of which is stained green. The base with a large himotoshi and a second aperture through the side. Signed underneath HAKUSEN – a rare early Edo school artist with only very few works recorded.HEIGHT 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear commensurate with age. A tiny, old, smoothed out chip to the edge of one foot.Provenance: H. Van Hoof, 23 July 1945. Collection of Robert and Isabelle de Strycker, acquired from the above and thence by descent in the same family. Robert de Strycker (1903-1968) was a French engineer who specialized in metallurgy. He was a Stanford graduate, a professor at the University of Leuven, a director of the Institute of Metallurgy at the Université Catholique de Louvain, and one of the most influential members of the faculty of applied sciences. After World War II, he made large contributions to France's post-war recovery. Robert and his wife Isabelle (1915-2010) first encountered Asian art at the British Museum during a stay in London in the 1930s. Enamored with the style and beauty, they both decided to study and collect Japanese and Chinese works of art. In 1938, they eventually began to build their collection, buying from Belgian, Parisian, and English dealers. They kept close contact with the famous English collector Sir Harry Garner (1891-1977) and noted Czech collector and expert Fritz Low-Beer (1906-1976).Museum comparison:A closely related boxwood netsuke of a woman washing clothes, by the Edo netsuke-shi Gyokurintei, is in the Bristol Museum, United Kingdom, accession no. N6199.

AN EARLY WOOD NETSUKE DEPICTING ROSEIUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Depicting Rosei resting on his side against a pillow with geometric designs to one side, one hand wrapped around the stem of an uchiwa, the warrior dressed in a voluminous robe with billowing sleeves which falls elegantly in incised folds. The face lost in a daydream with a gentle smile across the face. The base with a generously excavated, asymmetrical himotoshi.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and a smooth patina to the wood.In the original 8th century Chinese tale, Rosei (Lu Sheng) leaves his village in search of an illustrious career in the civil service. This tale inspired the 15th Century Japanese Noh play 'Kantan,' and was modified to reflect the Buddhist philosophy of Noh Theatre's elite warrior audience. In the Noh drama, Rosei falls asleep at an inn while waiting for his meal and dreams that he is visited by a grand entourage that invites him to become the emperor. When the innkeeper awakens him, Rosei immediately realizes that his fifty-year reign as emperor was only a vain dream. Rosei's awakening is comparable to a spiritual awakening or enlightenment that recognizes the transience of human life and the vanity of human ambition. Rosei abandons his dream of self-advancement and returns to his village.

AN AMUSING EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING MILLSTONE DRESSERUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), second half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a blissfully sleeping millstone dresser, his head resting on a large millstone, a hammer carved on top, a mischievous boy about to poke him with a long rod. The netsuke amusingly captures the moment right before the millstone dresser's rude awakening. The wood bearing a fine, dark patina. Large, asymmetrical and generously excavated himotoshi through the underside.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Good condition with minor expected wear and minuscule nibbling to edges. A small chip to the edge of the man's kimono.

A FINE TSUISHU THREE-CASE LACQUER INRO WITH KARAKO AT PLAY, WITH EN SUITE NETSUKE AND OJIMEUnsigned Japan, 18th-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The three-case inro of upright form and oval section, lacquered in tsuishu (carved red lacquer) and finely worked in high relief within panels depicting playing karako boys. In one room, obscured partially by a thick curtain, one boy plays with his 'fish-on-wheels' as another teases an infant with a rattle. The room detailed with screens and thatched floors, with a window to the outside. The reverse similarly depicting playing karako, one peering over a screen detailed with karakusa, all below pine trees against a wave ground. The sides incised with swirls. The interior cases lacquered in black. With a beautifully matching tsuishu ojime decorated with foliate scrolls and a fine tsuishu kagamibuta netsuke with a bat amongst blooming peony, the top carved with a scholar reserved within a rinzu band, the underside with a central himotoshi and a finely incised asanoha ground. HEIGHT 7.4 cm, LENGTH 6 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and rubbing, the lid of the kagamibuta with some losses.

A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A BLIND MASSEUR AND CLIENT, ATTRIBUTED TO JOBUNAttributed to Jobun, unsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Amusingly and boldly carved, the client grimacing in agony with one eye closed and the other rolling to the side as the blind masseur holds his arm back with one hand, digging the other hand into the back of his neck. A central tama-shaped himotoshi through the base. The expressions are masterfully crafted in the manner of Jobun, whom this work is confidently attributed to (see Museum comparison).LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, particularly to the underside. A small age crack to the side with an associated old fill.Museum comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a blind masseur lifting a strength stone having a closely related expression, signed Jobun, in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), accession number M.91.250.168.

AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO FIGHTING BLIND MEN AND A HOUNDBy Taketomo, signed Taketomo 竹友 Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two blind men in a tussle, hands grabbing each other as they push to move forward, the pommel of the staff knocking against the chin of one man as the other attempts to ward off an attacking European hound with ribs detailed. Clad in voluminous robes with billowing sleeves, the waist with a sagemono set tied to his obi, the tobacco pouch with a copper inlaid kanamono. The frowning faces detailed with squinting eyes looking up to the sky, one man with his mouth agape with a bulbous boil to his forehead. The back with generously excavated himotoshi and the neatly engraved signature TAKETOMO - the artist appears to be unrecorded but from the style it is likely that he belongs to the Hida-Takayama school.HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and traces of use. Tiny chip to one foot and a loss to the edge of the staff.Provenance: Ex-collection Guy de Lasteyrie, previously acquired by his grandmother, and thence by descent. De Lasteyrie is a member of the Lasteyrie du Saillant family and is considered among the leading French collectors of netsuke.Museum comparison:A related wood netsuke of a blind man with stone in clog, by Suganoya Shoko, dated to the mid-19th century, from the Raymond and Frances Bushell Collection, is in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, accession number M.91.250.160.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a blind man and a puppy by Shoko at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28th April 2023, Vienna, lot 183 (sold for EUR 3,900).

GYOKUSAI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A BLIND MASSEUR LIFTING A CHIKARAISHIBy Gyokusai, signed Gyokusai 玉哉 Japan, Edo (Tokyo), c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)A well-carved netsuke depicting an old masseur crouching to lift a strength stone, his muscular arms wrapped around the heavy rock as his knees attempt to pull the weight. The face animated and contorted into a grimace, the dead bulging eye cleverly inlaid in bone like his two teeth which bite into his bottom lip, all below furrowed brows. The emaciated body with ribs bearing, clad in a simple loincloth as a stray testicle humorously escapes the incised folds. The underside with a generously excavated himotoshi and the neatly engraved signature GYOKUSAI.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and traces of use. A microscopic old chip to one toe. Smooth patina overall.Provenance: Purchased from Kirin Gallery, November 1988. 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.Massage plays an important role in Japanese medicine. Mainly practiced by the blind, who strengthened their muscles in between with the help of chikaraishi or strength stones, chikaraishi have been used since at least the 8th century and even today can be found at some Shinto shrines, where they were used for competitions of strength, or for divination purposes. Today some have been designated as Important Cultural Assets.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a blind man lifting a stone by Gyokusai at Zacke, Kunst der Nestuke und Inro Japans - Ausstellung 1991, Vienna, no. 87.

AN OLD EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF AN OLD MAN WITH CHILDUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The slender wood netsuke depicting a man supporting a child on his back with one arm while the other hangs to the side. Both man and child wearing voluminous robes, looking up with charming smiles, having detailed facial wrinkles on their beguiling faces. The protruding ears of the man have a monkey-like resemblance and his robe which slips from his shoulder, exposing his ribs, suggests a humorous element to this figure. The 'natural' himotoshi between the man's arm and body.HEIGHT 7.2 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. The wood is covered in a rich naturally grown patina.

MIWA: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF A SARUMAWASHI (MONKEY TRAINER)By Miwa, signed Miwa 三輪Japan, Edo (Tokyo), c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Barry Davies Oriental Art (1996) Netsuke from the Teddy Hahn Collection, no. 69.A finely carved wood netsuke, bearing irresistible character and charm, depicting a seated monkey trainer with his attention-seeking monkey clambering onto his lap and pulling him by the ear. The sarumawashi's expression is masterfully crafted and imbued with humor, typical for the Miwa lineage, his face contorted into an indulgent smile as he grabs the monkey by a patch of fur on its back. Large himotoshi to the back and underside. Signed MIWA.HEIGHT 4 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Some old repairs. Otherwise, good condition with minor wear and an excellent, old patina.Provenance: From the collection of Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt. Theodor “Teddy” Hahn was a well-known and respected collector of netsuke and other Asian works of art. After spending time in museums to study the early cultures of the world, finding particular interest in their sculptures, he began collecting, remarking “I somehow knew it would have a profound influence on my life. How right I was. And how happy I have been.” Barry Davies Oriental Art, London, 1996. Hotel Drouot, December 2005. 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.Museum comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a monkey trainer with monkey by Miwa in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, object number O.69-1991.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of Gama sennin by Miwa (compare particularly the similarly crafted facial features) at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 164 (sold for EUR 11,052).

HOKYUDO ITSUMIN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A KOSHINTO STONE WITH THE THREE WISE MONKEYS (SAMBIKI SARU)By Hokyudo Itsumin, signed Hokyudo Itsumin 蓬丘堂逸民to 刀Japan, Edo (Tokyo), second half of 19th centuryFinely carved as the Three Wise Monkeys (Sambiki Saru) forming a pyramid in front of a stele inscribed with the character Ko 庚. The monkeys are carved in a humorous and naturalistic manner, typical for the artist. The eyes are double inlaid in pale and dark horn. The finely stained wood bearing an attractive color, the pillar neatly polished and with a simulated grain. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath within a rectangular reserve HOKYUDO ITSUMIN to [carved by Hokuyo Itsumin].HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear. One inlaid eye is replaced.The character Ko 庚 on the stele refers to Koshin 庚, a Japanese folk belief influenced by Taoism, Shinto, and Buddhism. It involves the Koshin-ko event held every 60 days. Believers stay awake to prevent Sanshi from reporting their actions to the deity Tentei. The belief gained popularity among the Imperial court in the 9th century and spread through writings by Buddhist monks. Monuments called Koshinto 庚申塔 were erected across Japan and often feature the Three Wise Monkeys which are central to the Koshin belief.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke depicting a monkey trainer by Hokyudo Itsumin at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 4 November 2022, Vienna, lot 53 (sold for EUR 8,450).

KAIGYOKUSAI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A FISHER GIRL (AMA) WITH TENAGA MONKEYSSchool of Kaigyokusai Masatsugu (1813-1892), signed Kaigyokusai 懐玉齋Japan, Osaka, second half of the 19th centuryFinely carved, the standing fisher girl turning to look up at the monkey seated on her shoulders, stabilizing the monkey's two legs, as the long-armed monkey reaches down and holds the arms of its young seated at the ama's feet. The fisherwoman dressed in the grass skirt of a pearl diver, having a serene expression on her face, a pouch tied to her waist. The monkeys are naturalistically carved and have inlaid eyes of tortoiseshell. The 'chimney type' himotoshi formed by one aperture to the back with the second beneath the skirt. Signed within a polished reserve KAIGYOKUSAI.HEIGHT 6.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear.This rather unique netsuke is finely balanced by the lanky arms which link the two monkeys, and which are a reference to the legendary yokai-fisherman Tenaga. In this amusing netsuke, the ama employs a Tenaga-monkey to fish its young out of the water.Auction comparisonCompare a related ivory netsuke attributed to Kaigyokudo (Kaigyokusai) Masatsugu, signed Masatsugu, depicting Okame with a monkey, at Christie's, The I.A. and Cecile Mann Victor Collection of Netsuke, 20 April 1989, New York, lot 58.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2307502999-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.

CHOKUSAI: A RARE WALRUS TUSK SEAL (INGYO) NETSUKE DEPICTING THE TWELVE ZODIAC ANIMALS (JUNISHI)By Miyagi Chokusai, signed Chokusai 直齋Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Exquisitely carved, the zodiac animals clamoring together with the large dragon twisting and coiling at its center. Vivid with palpable movement, each animal captured in dynamic movement, running or baring its teeth with a lively expression. The 'natural' cord attachment running through underneath the leg of the dog. The artist's seal CHOKUSAI to the back of the horse. The base of the ingyo netsuke bearing the seal cut characters 若君 Wakagimi [Young Lord]. The walrus tusk with beautiful, dense marbling.HEIGHT 5.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, natural flaws, expected age cracks, and a few tiny lossesProvenance: Family collection of either Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) or his son-in-law Louis (Loek) Borensztajn (1935-2021), Netherlands.Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) was an architect, art collector, dealer, and founder of the first Museum of Japanese Art in the Middle East. He became one of the world's leading collectors of Japanese art, starting at the age of 18, and continued to collect and work as an art dealer in Berlin in the 1920s. In the 1930s Felix Tikotin fled from the Nazis and hid his collection in the Netherlands. After the war, he decided that his collection should be taken to Israel, where in 1959 and with the help of Abba Hushi, who was the mayor of Haifa, The Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art was established. The Museum's collection comprises more than 8,000 items of art and crafts.Auction comparisonCompare a related work by the artist of similarly dense composition at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 233 (sold for EUR 4,880).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 VERY RARE MARINE IVORY JINGASA (WAR HAT) WITH THE TWELVE ANIMALS OF THE ZODIAC (JUNISHI)UnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sagemonoya (2022) A Selection of Netsuke & Sagemono from the Collection of Georgina & Gabor Wilhelm, p. 87, no. 156.The furled helmet with a lipped rim depicting the twelve animals of the zodiac: monkey, horse, dog, snake, rabbit, tiger, ox, boar, rooster, sheep, dragon, and rat. The himotoshi cleverly incorporated to the interior where the cords would traditionally be fastened.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and traces of use.Fuld's Netsuke and Ojime Index records no other example of a jingasa as the subject.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.

HOSAI MASAHIRO: A FINE ANABORI IVORY NETSUKE REFERENCING THE LEGEND OF CHORYO AND KOSEKIKOBy Hosai Masahiro, signed Masahiro 正廣 with seal Hosai 芳齋Japan, Tokyo, c. 1860A remarkable and intricately carved ivory netsuke, the manju-type netsuke fitted with a 'faux lid' carved in relief with a ferocious sinuous dragon forming a circle, one side pierce-carved in anabori with a design of Choryo handing back the shoe to Kosekiko after having defeated the water dragon. Two himotoshi and signed MASAHIRO with red seal HOSAI underneath. The artist was known for his meticulous anabori carvings and was a pupil of Adachi Masanobu.DIAMETER 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with few natural age cracks.Provenance: Sold at Sotheby's, 13 March 1987, London, lot 39. German private collection, acquired from the above.Zhang Liang (known as Choryo in Japanese) was a Chinese military strategist and politician who lived in the early Western Han dynasty. The present netsuke depicts the legend of when Choryo met the old man Kosekiko (Huang Shigong) on a bridge. The old man began to teach the art of war to Choryo and one day Kosekiko wanted to test Choryo and threw a shoe into the river where a powerful water dragon lived. The dragon seized the shoe and Choryo defeated it and gave the shoe back to Kosekiko. The present netsuke shows exactly this scene – the proud Choryo, with one foot on the dragon's head, is presenting the shoe to Kosekiko who is mounted on a horse atop a bridge. According to legend, Choryo used the teachings of Kosekiko as a military adviser to Liu Bang, the founder of the Han dynasty.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number DE-K-230523-303). 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.

HOKUREI: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE DEPICTING OKAME AND AN ONIBy Hokurei (Hokuryu), signed Hokurei 北嶺Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)Published: Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 183 (unillustrated).Intricately carved, the seated Shinto deity Okame holding a fan in her left hand, shielding her face, while staring intently at a miniature netsuke, still attached to its inro, depicting an oni shielding his face. Behind her stands a large and muscular oni mirroring the pose of the miniature netsuke, with a panicked expression on its face. The defensive pose of both devils alludes to the Setsubun festival during which the participants, such as Okame, would hurl roasted soybeans at oni in order to ward off the evil spirits. Himotoshi to the base and signed HOKUREI.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: The raised arm of the oni has been repaired. The horns of the oni chipped. Otherwise good condition with minor wear.Provenance: Ex-collection J. Bellhouse Gaskell, sold at his sale on 17 June 1926.

JUJO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF AN ONI FORGING HIS KANABOBy Jujo (Toshinori), signed Jujo 壽乗 and kakihan Japan, Edo/Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryThe hulking figure seated on a platform and hammering his faceted iron club into shape, the demonic face carved into a grin with bone-inlaid incisors sharp peering through the smile, the body muscular and imposing, and the head with long curling locks and two horns. The details superbly carved and finished, the wood bearing a good polish. The base with large, asymmetrical himotoshi, the smaller hole ringed in green-stained bone, and signed JUJO with a red kakihan.LENGTH 2.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and minimal traces of use.Provenance: Ex-collection Max G. Ritter. Sold at Sotheby's, 24 January 1975, Honolulu, lot 42. French private collection, acquired from the above.The kanabo is a mythical weapon, often used by oni, which reputedly possessed superhuman strength. This is alluded to by the Japanese saying 'like giving a kanabo to an oni'—meaning to give an extra advantage to someone who already has the advantage (i.e. the strong made stronger).Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a hare in a boat by the same artist, signed Jujo and kakihan, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke and Sagemono, 28th April 2023, Vienna, lot 205 (sold for EUR 3,640).

TOMOMASA: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE DEPICTING AN ONI POLISHING A MOKUGYOBy Tomomasa, signed Tomomasa 友正 to 刀Japan, Edo/Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryIntricately carved in the form of an oni bent over a large mokugyo bell. The gleeful expression of the demon contrasting with the immense effort he exudes while polishing, visible through the strained muscles of his biceps and legs. The oni wearing a tobacco pouch inscribed 'Hi yoshin' ('Beware of fire'). The himotoshi placed in the natural hollow of the bell. The base of the bell signed TOMOMASA to [carved by Tomomasa].HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear.Provenance: From a German private collection.Auction comparison:Compare the closely related ivory netsuke of an oni polishing a large cauldron, signed Tomomasa, sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 20 March 2012, New York, lot 2096 (sold for USD 2,750).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0341).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.

MASAYOSHI: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF A PARASOL MAKER WITH A MOVABLE HEADBy Masayoshi, signed Masayoshi 正義Japan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The seated parasol-maker bent over a block of wood, hard at work, one foot resting over an incomplete parasol, the other against the block of wood, his hands sharpening his tools. Dressed in a robe incised with foliate motifs, his obi suspends a tabako-ire, and strewn to his back is a thatched bag. His movable head with cheerful countenance surmounted by an incised conical hat. Himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Some minor repairs and a small crack to the underside. Generally good condition and presenting well.Literature comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of a figure with a moving head, by Masayoshi, illustrated in Arakawa, Hirokazu (1983) The Go Collection of Netsuke, Tokyo National Museum, p. 119, no. 232-33.

IPPOSAI: AN AMUSING INLAID IVORY AND WOOD KARAKURI (TRICK) NETSUKE OF A DARUMA DOLLBy Ipposai Jitsumin, signed Ipposai 一宝齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A beautifully rounded and compact wood netsuke depicting a daruma doll, the dark-toned wood superbly polished and attractively tactile, the face inlaid in finely stained ivory with a stern expression and incised stubble, the eyes switching between three moods (looking left, looking right, and looking ahead) when lightly tapped. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed IPPOSAI within an inlaid ivory-tablet. The artist was a pupil of the famous Meikeisai Hojitsu. HEIGHT 3 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Haviland, 1925. Hotel Drouot, March 1998. 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 wood trick netsuke of a daruma doll, switching between two sets of eyes, by Minko at Zacke, Fine Netsuke and Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 146 (sold for EUR 1,792).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207506411-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 WOOD AND EBONY NETSUKE OF A HUNTER AND DOG WITH A SUBDUED BOARBy Genryusai Minkoku, signed Minkoku 民谷Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the hunter standing tall wearing an expression of extreme satisfaction at the yield of his hunt. Hogtied at its feet, a large boar is shown lying on its back with its mouth slightly opened, exposing its sharp tusks. The hunter holds his staff in one hand and a pipe (kiseru) in the other, and next to him stands a dog, separately carved from ebony wood, looking up at its master with sublime admiration, raising one paw. The eyes of the dog are inlaid with aventurine. Finely hollowed himotoshi to the back. Signed within a rectangular reserve on the back MINKOKU.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. The edge of the right foot repaired.Provenance: Kunsthandel Klefisch, Auktion 61, 30 November 1996, Cologne, lot 253. 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.

MINKOKU: A RARE MARINE IVORY NETSUKE OF AN OLD MAN WITH A FOXBy Shuyusai Minkoku (Minkoku III), signed Minkoku 民谷Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Having released the fox from his trap, the seated old man wearing an endearing straw hat looking forward with an expression of exhaustion. The finely carved fox placing its paw gently on the man's hand as if in show of gratitude, lifting and curling its tail. Two himotoshi to the base. The underside signed MINKOKU.HEIGHT 3.2 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear, a tiny chip to one ear of the fox.This charming motif is very rare, and much more commonly the fox is being trapped by the hunter rather than being released. Foxes, often seen as trickster animals in Japanese folklore, were believed to possess shapeshifting abilities. But in ancient Japan, close proximity to foxes developed the earlier belief that these mystical creatures acted as family guardians.Literature comparison:Compare a related netsuke depicting a man trapping a fox, signed Mitsutsugu, illustrated in Schwarz, Karl M. (1992) Netsuke Subjects, p. 99, no. 261.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.

AKISHIGE: A FINE TOKYO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A STRETCHING MANBy Akishige, signed Akishige 明重Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved as a seated man, paused mid-reading, yawning and stretching his arms high above his head, channeling his inner Daruma. Robed in an expertly carved kimono with detailing to the hems, tied at the back, the Buddhist scripture open on his lap has impressive sumi-stained text detailed on both pages. Two small himotoshi to the back. The netsuke is carved from a choice piece of ivory with a beautifully lustrous polish, sealed to the base with a rectangular, red-lacquered tablet AKISHIGE.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Auction comparison:Compare a related netsuke of a stretching Hotei by the same artist, signed Akishige, sold at Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries, 20 January 2023, Vienna, lot 1527 (sold for EUR 3,640).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207512929-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.

GYOKUSUI: AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF A CRYING INFANT AND CRABBy Gyokusui, signed Gyokusui 玉翠Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)The infant crying out in pain as a crab in a shallow bowl pinches him with its claw, his face in agony as tears well up in his eyes, the mouth agape revealing his teeth and tongue. The robe finely incised with brocade patterns interspersed with foliate designs in coral and mother of pearl inlay, the buffalo horn belt suspending a kinchaku pouch in tsuishu lacquer detailed with mother-of-pearl and stained antler inlays. The base with asymmetrical and florally rimmed himotoshi and the neatly engraved signature within a red-lacquered reserve GYOKUSUI.HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and traces of use.Provenance: Ex. William F. du Pont Collection. Christie's, The William F. du Pont Collection of Netsuke and Inro, 1 November 1996, lot 7. French private collection, acquired from the above.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory and wood netsuke of a priest resting on mokugyo, by the same artist and signed Gyokusui, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 2nd December 2022, Vienna, lot 220 (sold for EUR 7,150).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been grantedThis 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 BOY WITH AN ELEPHANTUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryFinely carved in the round with a seated boy being gently nuzzled by the trunk of the caparisoned elephant sitting beside him. The boy with an amused look on his face, holding a drumstick and trumpet, kneeling atop a rock base. The elephant's mouth wide with glee, squinting as if in mid laughter with a leaf gracefully resting on its ear. A single himotoshi to the base with an orange agate filling.LENGTH 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and small losses to the agate filling.The netsuke-shi who created this piece chose a section of surface ivory. Working in the round, the artist integrated the rough exterior of the ivory into the rock base on which the boy and elephant sit. The superb execution and usage resulted in a finely textured base, pleasing to the touch.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2307504975-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.

TAKAHASHI HOUN: AN IMPORTANT WOOD NETSUKE OF A MYTHICAL ELEPHANTBy Takahashi Houn (Hogen Houn, 1810-1854), signed Houn 鳳雲Japan, c. 1850, Edo period (1615-1868)Published:Joly, Henri L. (1912) The W. L. Behrens Collection, Part 1, Netsuke, no. 5327 and illustrated on pl. LXIX.Hurtig, Bernard (1973) Masterpieces of Netsuke Art: One Thousand Favorites of Leading Collectors, p. 211, no. 891.Bandini (1977) Values and Record prices, Part II in Journal of the International Netsuke Collectors' Society, 5 /3, p. 20, listed as joint 5th most expensive netsuke at auction in that year.Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 200.La Gazette Drouot, no. 21, 27 May 2011 p. 177.D. Wright's report of the Wrangham sale in International Netsuke Society Journal, 31/2, p. 35, discussed and illustrated.G. Wilhelm's report of the same in Bulletin Association Franco-Japonaise, no. 110, pages unnumbered, discussed and illustrated.Exhibited:Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, Inro. An exhibition of Japanese Inro from the collection of E.A. Wrangham, October-November 1972, no. 34.Finely carved, the elephant-like animal reclining with its head turned back, the movement producing folds throughout the body and neck, the mouth slightly opened smiling benevolently, with large wrinkly ears and trunk, the trunk curling around one of the long tusks which rest against the mythical animal's body, forming a compact composition. The underside with generously excavated himotoshi and the signature in Tensho characters HOUN.Takahashi Houn was a pupil of Kokei (lot no. 186) and worked in Edo (Tokyo), where he was awarded the title Hogen for his carving of Buddhist images. He was highly respected during his lifetime, carving the 500 Rakan (fig.1.) for the Kamakura temple. Furthermore, he was the master of Takamura Toun, a highly respected carver of Buddhist wood figures and master of the celebrated artist Takamura Koun (1852-1934), for an example of the latter's work see fig. 2.Only very few netsuke are recorded by Takahashi Houn and this is the only illustrated netsuke by the carver in literature. The reason is likely that he focused his attention on carving larger scale Buddhist images commissioned by various temples. The unique treatment of material and subject clearly show the roots of this celebrated carver, the present carving really being more a Buddhist sculpture rather than a netsuke, akin to the highest-level Kamakura carvings, though in miniature form.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, few light surface scratches.Provenance Ex-collection W. L. Behrens (1861-1913). Sold at Glendining's, London, 1-8 December 1913. Glendining's, London, November 1931. Anonymous sale, Sotheby's London, 11 January 1965, lot 93, purchased by Edward A. Wrangham. Sold at the latter's second sale, Bonhams London, 10 May 2011, lot 90 (sold for GBP 19,200). French private collection, acquired from the above reputedly in competition with Edward 'Ned' Johnson III.The elephant-like mythical being depicted in this netsuke is by no means an ordinary elephant, but rather a religious creature frequently depicted in early Buddhist art or a baku (nightmare-devouring creature). The wrinkly body and trunk, long tusks, and smiling attitude bear an uncanny resemblance to the famous imaginary elephants (sozo-no-zo) from the Nikko Tosho-gu. This type of elephant was also frequently depicted in Buddhist art as the familiar of Fugen Bosatsu or on various architectural elements depicting baku.Museum comparison:Compare a related wood figure of The Eleven-Headed Kannon, by Takahashi Houn, in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

KYOKUSAI: A MASTERFUL SO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF FUGEN BOSATSU WITH ELEPHANTBy Tsukamoto Kyokusai, signed Kyokusai 旭齋Japan, Tokyo, late 19th to early 20th centuryExquisitely carved with remarkable detail, the large elephant of the bodhisattva seated next to the small standing figure. Fugen reading from a scroll wearing long, elaborately layered robes with billowing sleeves which drape from her arms, falling in elegant folds to the floor. The bodhisattva's face is set with a serene expression with a central byakugo beneath an intricately carved tiara. The skin of the elephant is carved with naturalistic wrinkles, its trunk coiling towards its opened mouth with a charming expression, revealing the mastery of the artist. The himotoshi formed by the bodhisattva's sleeve which flows underneath the elephant. The same sleeve forms the reserve for the artists signature, KYOKUSAI.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor wear and a microscopic chip to the very edge of one tusk.Fugen Bosatsu (Samantabhadra) is the bodhisattva associated with the practice of Buddhist teaching and joins Manjushri, the lord of transcendent wisdom, in a trinity with Shakyamuni Buddha. The deity is known as 'He whose bounty is omnipresent' and represents the Buddhist Law and compassion. The bodhisattva is borne by a white elephant, symbolic of the strength achieved through the practice of Buddhism.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of Monju Bosatsu seated on his lion, signed Kyokusai, carved with similar billowing sleeves, illustrated in Jonas, F.M. (1928) Netsuke, p. 65, no. 53. Compare a related wood netsuke of Gama Sennin, signed Kyokusai, who reads from a scroll in the same manner of Fugen, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 402.Auction comparison:Compare an ivory netsuke of a cherry blossom by the same artist, signed Kyokusai, at Quinn's Auction Galleries, The Helen and Jack Mang Collection of Netsuke, 7 December 2012, Falls Church, lot 170 (sold for USD 21,060).

SOSUI: A FINE SO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SEAHORSEBy Ouchi Sosui (1911-1966), signed Sosui 藻水Japan, Tokyo, first half of 20th centuryPublished: Sagemonoya, So School Netsuke, no. 36.Naturalistically modeled as a stylized seahorse with a defined and rigid torso, the face with large round eyes and a small mouth at the end of a tubular snout. The cord attachment formed by the swirling tail. Signed in neatly incised characters SOSUI.HEIGHT 8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only very minor wear.Ouchi Sosui (1911-1966) was the eldest son of Ouchi Gyokuso (1879-1944). His real name was Jiro, and he was the only one of Morita Soko's pupils who completed his apprenticeship, becoming independent in 1932.Museum comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a seahorse, by Isshin, from the Raymond and Frances Bushell Collection, in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), accession number M.91.250.16.

KANGYOKU: A FINE CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF A PUPPYBy Noriyoshi Tachihara (Kangyoku), signed Risshisai Kangyoku 立志斎 寛玉Japan, Tokyo, late 20th centuryA pleasingly tactile and superbly carved wood netsuke depicting a decidedly fat puppy with large floppy ears and chubby paws, its mouth agape revealing sharp teeth, the glaring eyes double inlaid in shell. The surface is beautifully polished and lightly stained, 'clouds' of stippled markings simulate the piebald fur coat of the dog., Good, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath, signed to one hind paw RISSHISAI and to the other KANGYOKU.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Old Swiss private collection. Old label 'R139' pasted underneath.Noriyoshi Tachihara (art name Kangyoku) was born in Tokyo in 1944. He learned carving from his father, Fasukichi Tachihara, who was a member of the school of the famous netsuke-shi Hojitsu. His favored subjects are animals and mythological creatures and he usually carved in mammoth ivory but can also carve various woods very successfully.

MASATOSHI: ABSTRACT BIRD (CHUSHO-DORI)By Nakamura Tokisada (Masatoshi) (1915-2001), signed Masatoshi 雅俊Japan, Tokyo, December 1962Published: Bushell, Raymond (1992) The Art of Netsuke Carving by Masatoshi as told to Raymond Bushell, no. 41.Carved from teak wood as an abstract bird, the naturally porous surface brilliantly simulating the bird's plumage, the eyes inlaid in black shell, two himotoshi underneath and signed within a red horn-inlaid plaque MASATOSHI.Masatoshi writes on this piece: “I had no particular species in mind when I designed this bird. Instead, I aimed at a high degree of simplification and abstraction, while striving for an appealing, avian shape in a size suitable for use with an inro. I selected teak for the subject – one of teak's advantages in this case being that its numerous pores, a little enlarged, suggest the feathers of a bird. The symmetrical bulges on the sides represent wings, and the slight elevation at the rear, tail feathers. I inlaid my signature on a label of red hornbill because of the difficulty of carving characters clearly on a porous surface, especially in the case of small netsuke”.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related antler netsuke of a swelling sparrow from the same artist, illustrated in Bushell, Raymond (1992) The Art of Netsuke Carving by Masatoshi as told to Raymond Bushell, no. 53, and sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 212 (sold for EUR 3,539).

MICHAEL WEBB: A WOOD NETSUKE WITH TWO FIGHTING STAG BEETLES, DATED 1987By Michael Webb (1934-2009), signed with artist's monogram 'MW'England, Yorkshire, dated December 1982Finely carved as a large decaying log with two stag beetles locked in battle, the details naturalistically executed and heightened by black staining. The eyes of the two insects are inlays of dark buffalo horn. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and with a neatly engraved 'Iwami-style' signature revealed by a layer of peeling bark: 'MW carved this at Cropton near York December 1987'.LENGTH 6.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Michael Webb (1932-2009), formerly director and auctioneer at Sotheby's, carved netsuke as a hobby until 1976. Afterwards he moved to Yorkshire and started mastering the art under the guidance of Luigi Bandini of Eskenazi Ltd. He specialized in British animals, insects, crustaceans and other sea life, always working in boxwood and utilizing various complex mixes of dyes and stains. He was deeply inspired by the naturalism of Iwami carvers and mastered the technique of ukibori carving.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of two carrion beetles by Michael Webb at Bonhams, The Robert S. Huthart Collection of Iwami Netsuke Part I, 15 May 2019, London, lot 176 (sold for GBP 7,562).

MICHAEL WEBB: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A CICADA ON DRIFTWOOD, DATED 1996By Michael Webb (1934-2009), signed with artist's monogram 'MW'England, Yorkshire, dated 1996Finely and naturalistically carved as a large cicada with folded wings perched on a section of driftwood, the insect's eyes inlaid in pale, translucent agate. The himotoshi underneath are cleverly incorporated into the design. Signed 'MW 1996'.LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Michael Webb (1932-2009), formerly director and auctioneer at Sotheby's, carved netsuke as a hobby until 1976. Afterwards he moved to Yorkshire and started mastering the art under the guidance of Luigi Bandini of Eskenazi Ltd. He specialized in British animals, insects, crustaceans and other sea life, always working in boxwood and utilizing various complex mixes of dyes and stains. He was deeply inspired by the naturalism of Iwami carvers and mastered the technique of ukibori carving.

LEIGH SLOGGETT: SHARKBy Leigh Sloggett (b.1960), signed LS Biri 美里Australia, 1993Finely carved as a ferocious shark twisted in motion, the mouth opened revealing sharp teeth and tongue, the eyes inlaid in dark horn, the gills neatly incised and the wood superbly polished. Signed underneath with the artist's initials 'LS' and with the artist's art name given to him by Bishu Saito BIRI 美里. The 'natural' cord attachment is formed by the twisting tail underneath.With the original wood box signed by the artist and with the title of the work 'Shark'.LENGTH 5.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Leigh Sloggett (b.1960) is an Australian contemporary netsuke carver who combines the traditional and functional attributes of the netsuke with innovative ideas, forms and concepts which come from his personal experiences. Mr. Sloggett studied fine arts, majoring in painting and sculpture. He started carving netsuke in 1992 and studied under Bishu Saito, Yasufusa Saito, Ryoshu Miyazawa, Mitsuyuki Aoki and Goraku Matsuda. His work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world, including: the British Museum, Tokyo National Museum, Los Angeles County Museum and can be found in important private collections.

GUY SHAW: A CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF AN OCTOPUS, 'PHOSPHORESCENCE'By Guy Shaw (1951-2003), signed with the artist's initial GSEngland, late 20th centuryIngeniously designed as the water flows around the body of the camouflaging octopus. The tentacles curled and loose against the body, ebbing and flowing with the current, highlighted and illuminated by the gentle sprinkling of gilt highlights that brighten its form. Shaw works them out with a precise sense of realism and at the same time poetry that is typical of him. The eyes are rendered in reddish horn with dark pupils. The core of the octopus—an alert mind and sharpness of cognition, the tentacles arbitrary all-around, soft, evasive, flowing, indeterminable, somehow in the flow of endless time. Natural himotoshi and the initials delicately rendered as a thread of water forming the G and the S in a single duct.LENGTH 7.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition. On the subject of octopuses, the late Guy Shaw opines, “A young octopus lets itself be carried by the current of the water wherever. His eyes he holds very little above the water, the tentacles he lets hang arbitrarily, as the current just wants it. The goal is movement without haste, without pressure and haste, activity without reaction.” Similar to the principle once defined in Japan as the 'Ukiyo,' the 'Flowing World,' by Asai Ryoi in 1611 in the Ukiyo Monogatari, in which he speaks “of enjoying the moment, of letting oneself drift along like a pumpkin in the great stream.”Literature comparison:Compare a closely related boxwood netsuke of an octopus 'drifting' by Guy Shaw at Zacke, Netsuke von großen alten Meistern und modernen - Ausstellung 1997, Vienna, no. 104.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

VADYM PYVOVAR: A TEAK WOOD NETSUKE OF A RATBy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's initialsUkraine, 10th June 2023Seated, the head raised and twisted to the left, bearing an alert expression as it sniffs the air while holding its long tail as it curls around its body, the wood with a fine patina and the eyes inlaid in black coral. Natural himotoshi and the base incised with the artist's initials. The carving is inspired by netsuke of rats by Masanao of Kyoto.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with one plugged knot to the wood.

VADYM PYVOVAR: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A WHALE, AFTER RISSHISAI KANGYOKUBy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's initialsUkraine, 2023The whale carved with the tail curling up over its flattened head to form a loop, its forelimb flippers held close to the sides, with incised accents and amber inlaid eyes. Well-excavated himotoshi and the side incised with the artist's initials.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Literature comparison:Compare to a related antler study of a whale in waves by Kangyoku illustrated in Michael Spindel Ltd., An Exhibition of Contemporary Netsuke and Ojime, 1991, New York, no. 19.

VADYM PYVOVAR: A BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A FREEZING KARASU TENGUBy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's initialsUkraine, 2023A fine wood netsuke described by Gabor Wilhelm as “tengu frieux” or freezing tengu, in our opinion very fittingly, as the mythical, bird-like being clutches its large wings together, standing rather stiffly, the three-clawed feet clenching together, and its expression shuddering – one imagines the cold breeze fluttering by. The karasu (crow-beaked) tengu has long finely carved hair, wears a tokin cap inlaid in lustrous black coral, the pupils inlaid with amber. The plumage well-detailed. Asymmetrical, generously excavated himotoshi through the back and one thigh incised with the artist's initials. The carving inspired by the many hallmarks of the Tanba school.HEIGHT 5.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison:Compare an example by the Tanba school which inspired this model at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 83 (sold for EUR 37,920).

A FINE WOOD BUGAKU MASK NETSUKE OF GENKOJI KAMENUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), late 18th- early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The Bugaku type mask well-carved, the head surmounted by a demonic, humanoid and long-limbed creature with claws for feet, one head frowning menacingly, the other growling with teeth baring and hair raised in flaming spikes. The central oni-like face with a fierce expression, the teeth with long incisors poking through, two angry faces carved further on the apple of the cheeks, all under bulging eyes with hollow pupils. Himotoshi bar to the reverse. Unsigned, however stylistically, this is likely carved by a member of the illustrious Deme family of mask carvers, such as Deme Uman.HEIGHT 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear and traces of use.Provenance: European collection P. Jacquesson.Literature comparison:Compare a near-identical wood mask netsuke by Deme Uman, described as a Genkoji mask, illustrated in Jirka-Schmitz Patrizia, The World of Netsuke, The Werdelmann Collection at the Museum Kunst Palast Duesseldorf, p. 215, no. 935.

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF OKAME AND HANNYA MASKSUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bushell, Raymond (1985), Netsuke Masks, pl. 270A, 270B.One side carved as an Okame mask with characteristic plump cheeks and bawdy smile, her eyes narrowed in laughter below her arched eyebrows and neatly combed hair. The reverse with a Hannya mask with a gaping mouth, strong jaw, sharp teeth, large bulging eyes with pierced pupils, and two horns. The contrast between the two masks, one symbolizing mirth and the other rage and jealousy, is achieved brilliantly. The himotoshi through the pierced aperture on Okame's side and through the 'natural' opening between the two masks.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond 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.Museum comparison:A closely related wood netsuke of Okame and Otobide masks is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), New York, accession no. 10.211.2417.

A FINE AND RARE PALE WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF A HEIKE CRAB MAN, ATTRIBUTED TO KOKEISAI SANSHOAttributed to Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936), unsignedJapan, Osaka, early 20th centuryPublished: Sagemonoya (2007) Netsuke at the Miami Kappa Convention: From Sea to Shore, pl. 60.Carved with grotesque, crab-like features, the mask with hollowed pupils on bulging eyes, a broad and prominent nose with pierced nostrils, and a distinctly shaped mouth displaying an upper row of teeth. The mask surmounted by horns shaped like pincers, the nose as well with crab pincers, the full cheeks stippled with crab-skin, the gaping mouth similarly textured. The reverse with a central himotoshi bar.HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Small crack with a repair to the himotoshi bar, otherwise in very good condition with only very minor surface wear.Provenance: Robert Fleischel, Paris, 2007. European collection P. Jacquesson, acquired from the above.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related netsuke of a 'heike crab' mask illustrated in Bushell, Raymond (1985), Netsuke Masks, pl. 323. For further examples of wood mask netsukes attributed to and signed by Kokeisai Sansho, see Boris Filatov (Spring 2012) Kokeisai Sansho: Mystery of the Genius International Netsuke Society Journal, vol. 32, no. 1, p. 25.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood mask netsuke by Mitsuaki at Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries-Japanese Art, 8 September 2023, Vienna, lot 826 (sold for EUR 2,600).

AN ANTLER NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMANUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved from a hollow triangular branch of antler as a Dutchman holding a large fan and wearing a typical hat, plugged at the top, and pensively stroking his long beard in the manner of an immortal. Large himotoshi formed by one hole in the back, the cord channel running through the natural opening at the bottom.HEIGHT 8.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.

AN ANTLER NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONIUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The demon queller depicted in typical manner with a grim expression, standing with his sword drawn and reaching after the oni which is hiding on top of his hat, the details boldly carved, the antler bearing a fine, unctuous patina. Large, asymmetrical, and generously excavated himotoshi through the back.HEIGHT 8.5 cmCondition: The plugged legs are replacements. Some old chips to the oni and hat.Auction comparison:For a related Kyoto school ivory netsuke of Shoki and oni see Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 42 (sold for 2,928 EUR).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A GOOD ANTLER NETSUKE OF KAN'UUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The God of War standing with his dragon-bladed halberd by his side and pensively stroking his beard. Himotoshi through the back. The antler bearing an appealing patina.HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and few natural 'flaws' to the material.Auction comparison:Compare a related, yet larger, antler netsuke likely from the same workshop (note particularly the similar backside) and depicting Kan'u at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 233 (sold for EUR 6,952).

A SUPERB ANTLER NETSUKE OF A BLIND MAN AND OCTOPUSUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Katchen, Arlette (2010) Netsuke 7, Vol. 2, pp. 328-329, no. K695 (described, rather amusingly, as a “Wall-eyed man climbing on head of seated drunk octopus”).Finely carved from a tubular section of antler as an octopus wearing a headband and standing on all of its eight wriggly tentacles with neatly detailed suckers, a blind man climbing up on its large head from behind crying out in terror having just identified the creature by touch. The perfectly functional himotoshi formed by the natural hollow opening of the antler beneath, the cord running through the opening of the blind man's sleeve. The lightly stained antler bearing an attractive color and patina.HEIGHT 7.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition with few natural 'flaws' to the material.Provenance: Sotheby's, The Katchen Collection of Netsuke Part I, 8 November 2005, London, lot 163 (sold for hammer price GBP 4,000). 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.

A GOOD ANTLER NETSUKE OF RAT ON LOTUS PODUnsignedJapan, probably Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved as a rat with a long and curling tail, its eyes inlaid in dark horn, cowering on top of a large lotus seed pod, the entire composition nestled within a lotus leaf. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi to the back, the antler bearing a good patina.HEIGHT 5.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and few natural 'flaws' to the material.

A RARE ANTLER NETSUKE OF A PUPPY, ATTRIBUTED TO TSUNEMASAAttributed to Tsunemasa, unsignedJapan, Kyoto, early to mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A simple, yet intrinsically charming and pleasingly tactile antler netsuke, bearing an attractive caramel patina (compare also to no. 291) and depicting a young pup crouching and barking at the viewer. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside. The naturally hollow material plugged at the front and back.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and few natural 'flaws' to the material.Literature comparison:The only recorded netsuke with a dog signed by Tsunemasa (who seldomly signed his works) depicts a Dutch lady with a puppy illustrated in Harris, Victor (1987) The Hull Grundy Collection in the British Museum, p. 29, no. 47.