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AN OLD WOOD NETSUKE OF TEKKAI SENNINUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Tekkai is shown exhaling is anima, his facial features finely sculpted with pronounced cheek bones, his finely incised beard and hair flowing downwards. He is wearing the typical sennin leaf cloak, the surface of the leaves beautifully worn from generations of handling. One himotoshi through the back, the other 'natural' through an opening of the sleeve.HEIGHT 9.1 cmCondition: Some old losses. The wood bearing a fine, deep patina.

AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A FISHERMAN HOLDING A NET, 18th CENTURYJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The fisherman carved standing, and wearing a skirt made from seaweed. His expression is finely captured with a healthy dose of humor, the eyes with dark inlaid pupils. One hand holds a net besides him and the other is raised towards his face. Good asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 7 cmCondition: The legs restored, otherwise good condition with expected wear and natural age cracks. Fine honey-yellow to amber patina. Provenance: From the collection of Felix Tikotin, and thence by descent within the family. Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) was an architect, art collector, and founder of the first Museum of Japanese Art in the Middle East. Born in Glogau, Germany, to a Jewish family, his ancestors had returned with Napoleon from Russia from a town named Tykocin. He grew up in Dresden and after World War I, he traveled to Japan and immediately fell in love with the culture. In April 1927, he opened his own first gallery in Berlin. The entire family survived the holocaust, and in the 1950s Tikotin slowly resumed his activities as a dealer in Japanese art. He became, once again, very successful and prominent, holding exhibitions all over Europe and the United States. When he first visited Israel in 1956, he decided that the major part of his collection belonged in that country. In 1960, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art was opened in Haifa. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0265).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A SAGE, 18th CENTURYJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The man shown in a relaxed posture. He is wearing a headdress and a flowing, well-carved robe, his facial features are finely crafted. Beautiful honey to amber hued patina and large himotoshi through the back and underside. HEIGHT 4 cm Condition: Good condition with minor wear, few age crack, and few tiny nicks. Provenance: Estate of an Austrian collector, the collection was assembled in the 1980s - 1990s through purchases at Galerie Zacke and other specialized galleries in Vienna. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0241).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MAN RESTING ON A ROCK, EDO PERIODJapan, early to mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The man is depicted seating in a relaxed pose, with his hand resting calmly on his knees, while a towering rock looms above him. One himotoshi to the back of the rock, the other to the underside. HEIGHT 6 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, natural age cracks, and few old, smothered chips. Beautiful honey to amber colored patina. Provenance: Estate of an Austrian collector, the collection was assembled in the 1980s - 1990s through purchases at Galerie Zacke and other specialized galleries in Vienna. With an old collector´s number to the underside. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0243).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SARUMAWASHI WITH MONKEY, EDO PERIODJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Of triangular section, carved as a standing monkey trainer, supported on his cane which he holds with both hands, wearing a long robe, a small woven basket tied to his belt, his large bag tied around his neck, and showing a friendly facial expression. His monkey clinging onto his shoulder in an amusing pose and holding a bud. The ivory bearing a fine patina. Himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 6 cm Condition: Good condition with expected wear, two old and worn-down chips to the himotoshi and natural age cracks. Provenance: From the collection of Felix Tikotin, and thence by descent within the family. Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) was an architect, art collector, and founder of the first Museum of Japanese Art in the Middle East. Born in Glogau, Germany, to a Jewish family, his ancestors had returned with Napoleon from Russia from a town named Tykocin. He grew up in Dresden and after World War I, he traveled to Japan and immediately fell in love with the culture. In April 1927, he opened his own first gallery in Berlin. The entire family survived the holocaust, and in the 1950s Tikotin slowly resumed his activities as a dealer in Japanese art. He became, once again, very successful and prominent, holding exhibitions all over Europe and the United States. When he first visited Israel in 1956, he decided that the major part of his collection belonged in that country. In 1960, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art was opened in Haifa. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0267 ).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI WITH BAG, 18th CENTURYJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved seated, the flaming tail and curly mane finely incised and the spine detailed, its head turned to the right, the mouth agape in a roar as it protects a large bag beneath its forepaws. Himotoshi through the back and underside. The ivory of a very appealing color with a fine honey to amber hued patina. LENGTH 3.8 cm Condition: Good condition with expected old wear and natural age cracks. One chip to its right ear. Provenance: Estate of an Austrian collector, the collection was assembled in the 1980s - 1990s through purchases at Galerie Zacke and other specialized galleries in Vienna. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0238 ).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 BOXWOOD AND EBONY NETSUKE OF A BASKET OF CHARCOALUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as a shaped basket, the surface smoothly polished, the top inlaid in ebony wood and carved as a dense bundle of variously cut charcoal used for the tea ceremony (chanoyu). Large, asymmetrical and generously excavated himotoshi underneath.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and traces of use. Small chip to the larger himotoshi.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF AN IMMORTAL, EDO PERIODJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The immortal depicted standing, wearing an elaborate headdress, and in an elegantly flowing robe finely incised with floral motifs, holding a cane in one hand and an alms' bowl in the other, his face with a long beard and his mouth slightly open. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Very good condition with surface wear and natural age cracks. Provenance: Dutch collection. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306321/20).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF FUKUROKUJU WITH KARAKOUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The lucky god laughing jovially, with a large beard and thick pendulous earlobes, seated and leaning against a low table, a karako climbing up over his shoulder and touching his amusingly large head. The ivory is beautifully worn with a deep-yellow and honey patina. Large himotoshi to the back and underside.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Good condition with expected age cracks and associated surface wear, some minor and old, scattered chips.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, acquired in 1988.Trade Certificate:The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0457). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEI WITH HIS TREASURE BAGJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as the seated Hotei, his face with a joyful expression, the right arm resting on his treasure bag and holding a fan, the left on his knee, dressed in a decorated robe, open at the chest to reveal his chest hair. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and minor expected age cracks, fine honey colored patina. Provenance: German private collection.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0662).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SAGE WITH HOZUKIJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of triangular form (sankaku), carved as a sage tearing apart a hozuki (winter cherry) to reveal its fleshy interior. Various elaborate patterns and designs are incised on his garment. Himotoshi to the back and underneath. The aperture between the body and beard indicates this netsuke could also be worn as a pendant.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, a small chip to the left knee, some expected age cracks. Superb patina.Provenance: French private collection.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0337).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A PILE OF RABBITSJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of appealingly compact form, carved as six hares huddled together in a pile atop a shaped base with subtle incision work, each rabbit neatly detailed with curious expression, round eyes, long ears, and short tails. The underside with three generously excavated himotoshi.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with expected wear and age cracks, few small chips to ears, traces of use. Fine, smooth, honey-yellow patina.Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0299).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DORMOUSE ON LEAFY GOURDUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A beautifully worn, tactile, and old ivory netsuke of a Japanese dormouse (Glirulus japonicus) clambering on top of a leafy gourd issuing vines and fruits. Natural himotoshi. The ivory bearing a superb honey patina.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear and age cracks.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0147). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A WOLF WITH HAUNCHUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A good old ivory netsuke depicting a hungry wolf devouring a haunch of venison. The expression of the hungry wolf looks satisfied as it tries to rip the meat from the bone of the deer. The piece was probably worn by several generations as the patina reveals the age of the netsuke showing age cracks and a deep-yellow worn patina, giving the piece a unique appeal. Natural himotoshi through the feet of the wolf.LENGTH 4.6 cm, HEIGHT 3 cmCondition: Signs of age and wear with age cracks on one side. The other side shows a deep-yellow worn patina. Despite its age it is in very good and complete condition.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0228). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

TOMOTADA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A DOG WITH BALLSigned Tomotada 友忠Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The dog (inu) wearing a collar with bell and protectively holding a large ball between its paws, its face with a charming expression, the eyes inlaid in reddish horn. The details, such as the curling tail and pronounced spine and rib cage, are finely carved. The ivory bearing a beautiful, warm yellowish patina, clearly loved and handled by several generations. Large himotoshi underneath and to the side. Signed TOMOTADA within a rectangular reserve under the left hind paw.LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Good condition with several age cracks. Attractively worn with a fine patina.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of a female dog and pup, signed Tomotada, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 52 (sold for 5,688 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207511156-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.

RANICHI: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A PUPPY WITH AWABIBy Ranichi, signed Ranichi 蘭一Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The ivory netsuke with neatly incised fur and stained patches, depicting a piebald puppy pressing one paw down on an awabi shell. The canine's expression is quite amusing - its mouth is opened, baring a row of oddly large teeth, and the double-inlaid eyes are placed wide apart. Natural himotoshi and signed within an elliptic reserve RANICHI - a pupil of Rantei.LENGTH 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, some age cracks.Provenance: German private collection.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0092). 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 IVORY NETSUKE OF A SNARLING SHISHI WITH BALL, ATTRIBUTED TO MITSUHARUAttributed to Mitsuharu, unsignedJapan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved seated, its head turned back in a typical attitude as it protects a large, smooth ball with all paws, the bulging circled eyes with dark-inlaid pupils, the curled mane and fur neatly incised, the mouth slightly agape revealing tongue, teeth, and a movable ball, the back and underside with large and generously excavated himotoshi. HEIGHT 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, the ivory slightly worn.,Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shishi with ball by Mitsuharu, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 532.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke, by Mitsuharu, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 17 (sold for 11,250 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0145). 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 KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHIJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A bold and impressive ivory netsuke of a recumbent shishi executed in distinct Kyoto style, probably carved by an artist of the Okatomo school. The shishi has a bushy tail, mane, floppy ears and is scratching its densely bearded chin with its hind leg. The powerful expression is a mixture of a deep satisfaction and an expressively powerful snarl. The shishi's spine and rib cage are articulated and the large himotoshi are located on the underside.HEIGHT 3.5 CM, LENGTH 5 CMCondition: The patina is slightly rubbed in some areas, and the two front legs have been reattached and fixed with a pegProvenance: Czech private collection, acquired at Zacke. Previously in the 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman Auction comparison: A comparable shishi was sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, New York, 19 March 2008, lot 5079.A comparable shishi by Okatomo was sold at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, London, 6 November 2011, lot 18.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0585).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.

KOKEI: A RARE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHISHI SCRATCHING HIS EARBy Kokei, signed Kokei Japan, Tsu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The finely carved ebony netsuke, depicting a reclining shishi scratching his ear, the bushy mane and tail delicately incised. Himotoshi and signature on the underside KOKEI. LENGTH 3 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Dutch private collection.

KIYOKATSU: AN IVORY NETSUKE WITH UTENSILS (CHADOGU) FOR THE TEA CEREMONY (CHANOYU)By Kiyokatsu, signed Kiyokatsu 清勝Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved to depict a tea kettle (chagama) neatly stippled and carved in relief with pine trees and lion mask handles, a finely incised haboki (feather broom), an ikoma (tea container), and a shallow bowl. Himotoshi through the underside of the kettle and the cord attachment in the form of an eyelet within the removable lid. Signed to the underside of the bowl KIYOKATSU.LENGTH 5.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, few tiny nibbles to edges. Provenance: Grace Tsumugi, London. Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, acquired from the above.Museum comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a tea kettle by Kiyokatsu, similarly carved to the tea kettle on the present netsuke with pine trees and lion mask handles, formerly in the collection of Raymond Bushell and now in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, accession number AC1998.249.272a-b.Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of tea ceremony utensils, also dated early 19th century, 6 cm wide, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, 10 May 2017, lot 47 (sold for 2,000 GBP). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL310829/20).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

YASUTADA: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL EMERGING FROM ITS SHELLBy Yasutada, signed Yasutada 安忠Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved as a snail easing its way out of its shell, its optic feelers fully extended and touching the shell, the skin neatly incised with a scale pattern, the shell with dense, gently curved lines, the varying incision work creating an appealing contrast in textures, which have somewhat smoothened over time due to extensive handling, the recesses finely stained. The underside with a 'natural' himotoshi between the snail's shell and body, which nonetheless has been rounded by the carver, the shell incised with the signature within a rectangular reserve YASUTADA - the artist is very rare with only few examples recorded. It is supposed he was a pupil of Tomotada of Kyoto.LENGTH 3.5 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, few light scratches, one small chip. Provenance: Ex-collection 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.”Auction comparison:Compare a wood netsuke of a rat by the same artist at Lempertz, 11 June 2022, lot 403 (sold for 2,268 EUR).

SARI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL EMERGING FROM ITS SHELLBy Sari, signed Sari 左里Japan, Iwashiro, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Beautifully and naturalistically carved as a decidedly fat snail (katatsumuri) emerging from its shell with its feelers and labial tentacles folded back and resting on the shell for compactness. The ridged and spiraling shell is carved with incredible detail and the rough texture of the body is achieved through a multitude of finely etched strokes. The foot is visible on the underside, forming a curling lump with natural himotoshi going through under it. The edge of the shell signed SARI.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Some wear, small nicks, light surface scratches, one fine hairline, one crack.Provenance: From the collection of Felix Tikotin, and thence by descent within the family. Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) was an architect, art collector, and founder of the first Museum of Japanese Art in the Middle East. Born in Glogau, Germany, to a Jewish family, his ancestors had returned with Napoleon from Russia from a town named Tykocin. He grew up in Dresden and after World War I, he traveled to Japan and immediately fell in love with the culture. In April 1927, he opened his own first gallery in Berlin. The entire family survived the holocaust, and in the 1950s Tikotin slowly resumed his activities as a dealer in Japanese art. He became, once again, very successful and prominent, holding exhibitions all over Europe and the United States. When he first visited Israel in 1956, he decided that the major part of his collection belonged in that country. In 1960, the Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art was opened in Haifa.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a snail by Sari at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 123 (sold for 7,584 EUR).

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TEMPLE SERVANTJapan, Meiji period (1868-1912)Carved seated, wearing a loose-fitting robe carved with voluminous folds and wearing an Eboshi hat, the face showing a worried expression, with minutely inlaid pupils. His right hand resting in the pierced sanbo (stand) in front of him, where dried fish skin lies.HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Good condition with minor surface wear and nibbling to edges. Provenance: American private collection.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A MITSUHIRO-STYLE WOOD NETSUKE OF HOTEIJapan, Edo Period (1615-1868)The finely carved wood netsuke executed in the style of Mitsuhiro, depicting Hotei dressed in a long flowing robe, revealing his large belly and bare chest, holding a fan in his right hand and his treasure sack in the left hand with a cheerful facial expression. One himotoshi through the back and the underside being hollow.HEIGHT 4 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor traces of wear and age. Provenance: European collection.

A BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY WITH PEACHJapan, Edo period (1615-1868)A humorous scene with a monkey holding an oversized peach, the expressive face with round eyes and wrinkled forehead.LENGTH 5 cmCondition: Very good condition with expected wear. Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SWIMMING NINGYO (MERMAID)Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)The ningyo is half fishlike, apart from the arms, hands, and human face with amusing expression and inlaid eyes. The underside with two small himotoshi.LENGTH 5 cmCondition: Good condition with minor surface wear. Provenance: American private collection.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A RARE MIXED METAL MANJU NETSUKE WITH ASTROLOGICAL ZODIAC COMPASSUnsignedJapan, c. 1850, Edo period (1615-1868)Of shibuichi with a silver rim, the front worked in takazogan with rich gold depicting a scene of temple servants amongst butterflies resting by a fire. The interior reveals an old silver compass inscribed with the characters for the twelve animals of the zodiac and the four cardinal directions. Looped cord attachment to the exterior.DIAMETER 3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear. A peg to the side lost.

HIDEKAZU: A WOOD NETSUKE OF BENKEI CARRYING THE BELL OF MIIDERABy Hidekazu, signed Hidekazu 秀一Japan, Osaka, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Benkei shown leaning backwards and with his feet lifted off the ground, as he tries to lift the heavy bell using an iron staff (kanabo) supported on his shoulder, with one small himotoshi through the side, the other natural through the bell opening below, the underside with signature HIDEKAZU - a pupil of Hidemasa.HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.Literature comparison: Compare an almost identical Netsuke of Benkei carrying the Bell of Miidera, by Sanko, in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, accession number 98.105.78.

A BOAR TUSK NETSUKE DEPICTING A RECUMBENT OXUnsigned Japan, probably Iwami Province, 19th centuryFinely carved in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with a recumbent ox, its fur detailed with skillful stippling and dark stain, its head lowered to one side and the tail trailing, the animal further with raised ribs, long curved horns, and wide funnel-shaped ears. The reverse with a single himotoshi. The surface bearing a fine honey-yellow patina, particularly to the back.LENGTH 7 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, expected age cracks, few light surface scratches.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related boar tusk netsuke, similarly carved in shishiaibori with a recumbent ox, 12 cm long, at Sotheby's, The Carlo Monzino Collection of Netsuke, Inro and Lacquer, 21 June 1995, London, lot 241 (sold for 1,840 GBP).

A RARE AND UNUSUAL TRICK WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAKAN AND FOX UnsignedJapan, probably Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The rakan (arhat) seated leaning against a large ittobori-carved rock, the interior inset with a minutely carved painted fox priest which springs out and is secured by a mechanism to the side, scaring the rakan, the separately carved Buddhist disciple amusingly unaware of its presence. The combination of techniques used on this netsuke is quite unusual, the face of the rakan carved with exquisite detail reminiscent of the Edo school. Natural himotoshi to the rock.HEIGHT 3.1 cm (without the fox being extended)Condition: Very good condition, minor wear.

HOMIN: A GOOD WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN WITH BATHING WOMANBy Homin, signed Homin 法眠Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-186)Boldly and amusingly carved as Raijin, having descended to earth on a cloud, resisting the advances of a young woman sitting in a tub, who is trying to drag him down to her, while he makes a gesture with his finger in his mouth akin to a fishhook, perhaps knowing that he will not be able to resist much longer. The details are finely incised and darkly stained. Note the beautifully carved, wispy cloud which partially engulfs the tub. The underside with two himotoshi and signed HOMIN within a rectangular reserve.HEIGHT 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, appealingly worn.Provenance: Old private collection in Berlin, Germany. Kunsthandel Klefisch, 6 December 1997, Cologne, lot 303. German private collection, acquired from the above.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related wood netsuke by Sensei, 4.3 cm high, dated c. 1800, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 131 (sold for 4,803 EUR).

HOSHINSAI: A FINE EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF OMORI HIKOSHICHI ENCOUNTERING A DEMONBy Hoshinsai, signed Hoshinsai 法眞齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely carved and powerfully executed wood netsuke, displaying a superb aji (patina). The hero Omori Hikoshichi is shown drawing his sword and looking back at the Hannya-faced demon which he carries on his back, the demon pulling a grimace and holding a loose strand of hair in her hand. According to legend, he thought he was carrying a beautiful lady across a stream, but in the ripples of the moonlight reflected on the water he discovered her true demonic form. Large himotoshi to the back and signed HOSHINSAI - a rarely encountered Edo school artist working in the style of Gessho.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical and attractive wear. A small repair to one foot.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.Auction comparison:Compare to related, yet larger, Edo school wood netsuke depicting the same subject, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 151 (sold for 12,008 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

JUGYOKU: A VERY FINE IVORY MANJU NETSUKE OF DARUMABy Ryukosai Jugyoku, signed Jugyoku 壽玉 and sealed Yamazumi (Sanju) 山住Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The rounded two-part ivory manju netsuke superbly polished and attractively stained, carved in relief to the front with a pensive image of Daruma with some sumi-stained details, the eyes double-inlaid in pale horn with dark horn pupils. The reverse shows a hossu (Buddhist fly whisk) executed in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with superb katakiri engraving. Signed JUGYOKU with red-lacquered square seal Yamazumi, which indicates a Shinto shrine. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment within.DIAMETER 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, some minor chipping to the exterior and interior rim.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris. Old Japanese label to the interior.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0012).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.

TOSHINAGA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI WITH YOUNGBy Toshinaga (Juei), signed Toshinaga 壽永 with kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and stained with sumi (ink) as a large snarling shishi with its young next to it, the cub scratching its ear with its hind paw and nestling up close to the mother. The composition is set on an oval base, the underside polished smooth and with a central himotoshi and the neatly incised signature TOSHINAGA (Juei) and kakihan.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor expected surface wear.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0128). 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.

TOMOKAZU: A DARK WOOD NETSUKE OF A CORAL FISHERMANSigned Tomokazu 友一Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The seated coral fisherman holding a bright-red coral branch in his hands, wearing only a finely carved straw skirt, his expression fiercely protective, the eyes inlaid with dark horn. Good himotoshi to the side and through the straw skirt and signed on the right leg TOMOKAZU - not to be confused with Kano Tomokazu, but rather an artist working in Edo during the mid-19th century.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, a few small age cracks.Provenance: Jacques Ganzl collection, sold at Piasa, Paris, 1999. Sold at Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 141. A noted private collection, USA, acquired from the above.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF INO HAYATA SLAYING THE NUEUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Ino Hayata and the nue engaged in mortal combat on top of a finely carved cloud base, the mythical creature terrified as Hayata, clad in full armor, holds his drawn sword to the nue's body, ready to strike. Large himotoshi formed by a gilt kiku-framed cord hole underneath.HEIGHT 4.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Reinhard Schulze, purchased between 1937 and 1945 in Japan. Lempertz, Asian Art, 9 December 2017, Cologne, lot 475 (sold for 2,728 EUR). The nue is a mythological chimera having the head of monkey, the limbs of a tiger, the body of a tanuki, and a snake as a tail.

MUGAI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A BLIND FISHERMAN TAMING THE NAMAZUBy Mugai, signed Mugai 夢外Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An unusual and spirited carving, depicting a blind fisherman clad only in a fundoshi, his enlarged testicle slipping out, his face with an amusingly distorted expression, one eye closed and the other bulging, as he tries to tame the namazu with his tiny gourd - an amusingly futile attempt. The gigantic namazu appears to be smiling, the expressions of the two providing a humorous contrast. The namazu's eyes are inlays of black wood. Large, asymmetrical, and generously excavated himotoshi underneath and signed MUGAI - The artist is exceedingly rare with only very few examples recorded. The well-toned wood bearing a beautiful, dark patina.LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, some fine age cracks and light surface scratches. Good patina.Provenance: From an old Swiss private collection, Geneve, purchased at Sotheby's, 16 July 1973, London, lot 153.Legend has it that certain types of catfish (namazu) are responsible for the earthquakes that plague the islands of Japan. When aroused, these creatures would contort their bodies in such a way that gigantic tremors shook the area for miles and miles. The Shinto deity Kadori Myojin usually attempts to prevent such catastrophe with the help of his magic gourd.

GENRYOSAI MINKOKU: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO MONKEYS ON A PINE BRANCHBy Genryosai Minkoku I, signed Genryosai 玄了齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as two monkeys clambering on a gnarled branch issuing leaves, one monkey on top scratching his behind and the other climbing downwards playfully and facing the one on top. A boldly executed, humorous and dynamic design, the wood bearing a fine, dark patina. The underside with one large himotoshi and signed GENRYOSAI (Minkoku). The subject appears to be unique for this celebrated early Edo carver.LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: Very good, typically worn condition. Few age cracks and minor surface wear. Beautiful, deep patina.Provenance: Old Irish private collection, Dublin, purchased from Christie's, 17 February 1981, London, lot 113.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EATING A PEACH, ATTRIBUTED TO MIWAAttributed to Miwa, unsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An old and beautifully worn wood netsuke finely carved as a seated monkey with an amusing expression, holding a large peach between its legs and nibbling at a piece of the fruit while scratching his behind. The eyes are inlaid in bone. Large himotoshi underneath. Beautiful dark patina.HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and typical traces of use. One eye is probably replaced. Literature comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke of a monkey, by Miwa, illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, no. 260.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT BOAR, INSCRIBED MASANAOInscribed Masanao 正直Japan, 20th centuryFinely carved as a recumbent boar (inoshishi) raising its head, the eyes inlaid and fur neatly engraved, with two legs raised and two legs tucked under the body. Natural himotoshi and inscribed within a recessed oval reserve MASANAO.Condition: Excellent condition with only very minor surface wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Bernard Kotkin. A noted private collection, USA.LENGTH 4 cmAuction comparison:A closely related wood netsuke of a boar by Masanao was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 136 (sold for 4,298 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

SHOKIN: A WOOD NETSUKE OF THREE TURTLES IN A PYRAMIDBy Shokin, signed Shokin 松琴Japan, 19th centuryOf compact form and finely carved as a mother turtle with two young clambering on top of her shell and each other, the carapaces neatly incised, the eyes inlaid with dark horn. The mother has almost entirely retreated into her shell as her young attempt to climb over each other to get to the top where the sun is the strongest and to enjoy a healthy sunbathing. The turtles' limbs are stained dark while their heads and carapaces are of a reddish brown, creating a striking contrast that is complemented by the different textures. Several natural himotoshi due to the openwork. The underside signed in an oblong reserve SHOKIN. LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, the underside with remnants of wax or adhesive, one eye inlay lost. Provenance: A noted private collection in California, USA.Auction comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke depicting a similarly carved turtle tied to a roof tile by Shokin, 3.6 cm wide, dated late 19th century, at Kunsthaus Klefisch, 30 November 1996, Cologne, lot 274. Compare a related wood netsuke depicting a cat and tortoise by Shokin, similarly signed within a reserve to the underside, 4.5 cm long, dated 19th century, at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 24 November 2018, lot 111 (sold for 2,654 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

AN INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING ONI AT SETSUBUNUnsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely carved and darkly stained wood netsuke of a terrified demon sprawling on the ground, attempting to shield itself from being pelted by beans, three of which have hit him, inlaid in bone. The oni's face is well detailed with dark-inlaid eyes below raised brows, the horns poking through the neatly incised curled hair, the mouth wide open in an agonized scream revealing tongue and teeth. The demon is wearing an incised lower garment, similarly detailed shin guards, and a shawl tied around his waist and shoulder, a buckle in front is inlaid with stag antler petals encircling a coral bead. Himotoshi to the side of the lower garment and the right leg.LENGTH 5.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Provenance: Galerie Yamato, Paris, 2004. French private collection, acquired from the above.A classic subject, interpreted here in an unusual way.The Setsubun festival 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.

A LARGE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLUMBERING SHOJOUnsignedJapan, Nagoya, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An unusually large and boldly carved execution of this classic model, the drunken sprite in a deep slumber induced by a hefty amount of sake. One hand is placed in its lap and the other pressed against the cheek, supporting the face, probably dreaming of drinking more sake. The finely incised long hair neatly falls down the back and the well-carved robe is adorned with neatly carved shokko and lozenge patterns. The wood of a good color with an appealing, warm patina. Very large, generously excavated himotoshi. The raised rectangular reserve where the signature is usually found is left blank.SIZE 4.5 X 4.5 x 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear and occasional light scratches.Provenance: From a noble estate in Hesse, Germany.

TSUNEYOSHI: A RARE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO DRUNKEN SHOJOBy Tsuneyoshi, signed Tsuneyoshi 常美Japan, Nagoya, early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two drunken sprites depicted side by side, one sleeping blissfully, using a hyotan (double gourd) filled with sake as a pillow, and the other touching its head in an amusing gesture, clearly hungover and trying to remember their drunken exploits from last night. Their robes are well carved with typical cloud patterns and further detailed with subtle ukibori. Their expressions are finely carved and treated with a healthy dose of humor. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside and signed TSUNEYOSHI - an apparently unrecorded artist working in the Nagoya style.HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and traces of use. Fine patina.Shojo are usually depicted on their own in netsuke art. Netsuke of two or more shojo are considerably rare.

A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A WASP INSIDE A ROTTEN PEARUnsigned Japan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a decaying and half-eaten pear, the skin rotting off in sections to the reverse, a wasp with eyes inlaid in dark horn picking the fruit's flesh inside a large hole in the front. The surface of the pear is smoothly polished, while its curved stem is roughly textured. The back with asymmetrical himotoshi with raised rims.HEIGHT 5.2 cmCondition: The stem repaired. Otherwise good condition with minor wear, few tiny nicks around the himotoshi.Literature comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of a wasp inside a rotten cucumber signed Harushinsai, the cucumber with a similarly smooth surface to the pear on the present netsuke, illustrated in Hurtig, Bernard (1973) Masterpieces of Netsuke Art: One Thousand Favorites of Leading Collectors, p. 172, no. 703.Auction comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of a wasp inside a decaying pear by Gekko at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 129 (sold for 8,848 EUR).

IKKAN: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT HORSEBy Ikkan, signed Ikkan 一貫Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A beautifully rounded and compact model of a horse turning backwards and raising its head, the ears laid back against the sublimely carved mane, the finely carved tail sweeping around to the front, the legs tucked neatly underneath the body. Signed on the haunch IKKAN within the typical oval reserve. Natural himotoshi, the eyes inlaid in dark horn.A remarkably spirited carving with a stunning patina and aji, clearly loved by several generations. An early work by the artist, less detailed and opulent than his later works, however still possessing all the character and charm which distinguish this celebrated carver.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor associated surface wear including some tiny nicks and light surface scratches. Beautiful patina.Provenance: Ex-collection Betty Jahss, sold at Sotheby's, The Betty Jahss Collection of Netsuke Part II, 14 November 1991, London, lot 69.Literature comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke of a recumbent horse, by Ikkan, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 215.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A SUPERB DARK WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON, ATTRIBUTED TO TAMETAKAAttributed to Tametaka, unsignedJapan, Nagoya, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A remarkably bold and powerful wood netsuke of a dragon coiling around itself, its body varying in thickness, forming a tactile, compact composition, the head and one of the claws resting on top, with flaming whiskers and finely incised scales. The underside shows the thick tail curling around itself, forming the natural himotoshi. The deep-reddish cherry wood beautifully worn with a fine, unctuous patina.The netsuke is unsigned however confidently attributed to Tametaka, who is mentioned in the Soken Kisho of 1781.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical surface wear. Beautiful, deep patina.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke of a dragon, by Tametaka, at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from a French Private Collection, 4 November 2020, London, lot 61 (sold for 5,312 GBP). Also compare to another related ebony wood netsuke of a dragon, by Tametaka, at Sotheby's, The Betty Jahss Collection of Netsuke Part I, 13 June 1991, London, lot 65.

SHIGEHIRO: A CHARMING WOOD NETSUKE OF A DOG AND TWO PUPSBy Shigehiro, signed Shigehiro 重寛Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A sweet and finely carved wood netsuke of a female dog with her two young, playfully biting one of the pups, their spotted fur coats neatly incised and finely stained, the underside with numerous well-detailed paws, the himotoshi formed by the space between the back and front paws, the mother's belly carved with the signature SHIGEHIRO. LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.Literature comparison: Compare to a similar wood netsuke by Yoshihisa is illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 2, p. 1231.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

MASAKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT GOATBy Masakazu, signed Masakazu 正一Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a bulky goat with curved horns inlaid in buffalo horn and neatly incised fur, the eyes double inlaid in bone and pale reddish horn, the feet with distinctly chubby hooves tucked under the body for compactness. Signed underneath MASAKAZU - probably Minko school.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear and discoloration, few traces of use.

MINZAN: AN UNUSUAL WOOD NETSUKE OF DAIKOKU WITH UKIBORI DETAILSBy Minzan, signed Minzan 民山Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as Daikoku leaning over a treasure bag, his right hand swinging his trusty mallet, the right leg on a rice bale, the face finely engraved with a generous smile, flanked by pendulous earlobes. The robe, tied at the waist by a key-fret belt, is beautifully worked with ukibori swirls, Himotoshi through the treasure bag and rice bale and signed underneath in ukibori characters MINZAN.HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.

A RARE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF COILED SNAKEUnsignedJapan, possibly Iwami, 18th-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The snake (hebi) elaborately coiling around itself, its sinuous body forming an elaborate bundle of twisting loops, the entire surface covered in 'punctured' scales, its head resting at the top in a lurking manner. One large himotoshi through the body underneath. The glaring eyes are double inlays of pale, translucent horn with dark pupils.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison:Ebony wood netsuke of snakes are to be considered rare and are mostly attributed to the Iwami school of carvers. The manner of the inlaid eyes of the present snake are reminiscent of this school as well. For a related ebony netsuke of a coiled snake, attributed to Seiyodo Bunshojo, see Bonhams, The Robert S. Huthart Collection of Iwami Netsuke Part I, 15 May 2019, London, lot 52 (sold for 6,312 GBP).

MASAMARU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT HORSEBy Masamaru, signed Masamaru 正丸Japan, Nagoya, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the dark-reddish cherry wood beautifully smoothed and bearing a fine patina. The horse (uma) is sensitively crafted, rearing its head back over its left shoulder, the mane neatly incised and falling in tresses over its neck. The underside is equally well-carved, showing the legs with superbly carved hooves tucked underneath for compactness. Signed MASAMARU in a polished area on the haunch underneath.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, only very minor wear. Small repair to one ear. Superb patina.Provenance: Ex-collection Philip Schneider (1908-1983), sold at Sotheby's, Japanese Works of Art, 21 March 1997, New York, lot 318. A noted private collection, USA, acquired from the above.The artist is a rare artist from the Nagoya school, his output being fairly limited and mostly focused on netsuke depicting shojo. The comparison of this netsuke with Ichiyu's kirin (lot 72) and Masayasu's goat (lot 74) is certainly instructive and interesting, particularly when comparing the undersides. The present horse netsuke is surely slightly earlier, and the three carvings together provide insight into the evolution of Nagoya carver's techniques with more attention given to fur and an increased use use of sukashi-bori (openwork), as netsuke became more ornamental during the 19th century, rather than being worn.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related Nagoya school wood netsuke of a horse by Ittan was sold at Christie's, Japanese Art & Design, 11 May 2011, London, lot 301 (sold for 3,750 GBP).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

SHOTO: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A WILD BOARBy Shoto, signed Shoto 松涛Japan, Iwashiro Province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A superbly carved wood netsuke, of compact design, depicting a recumbent long-snouted boar with a wild hairstyle and meticulously engraved fur. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn encircled with gilt metal, which is typical for the school of Hidari Issan, whom this carver is associated with. The underside shows the beautifully carved feet which are folded underneath the body, the asymmetrical himotoshi, the smaller hole ringed in stained bone, and the signature within an oval reserve underneath the right haunch SHOTO.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only minor wear.Literature comparison:The artist was a rare follower/pupil of Hidari Issan and only a few of his netsuke are recorded. A wood netsuke depicting a dragon clutching a tama, signed Shoto, published in Barker & Smith (1976), Netsuke: The Miniature Sculpture of Japan, no. 247 and located in the British Museum, accession no. F. 296. further illustrates this point.Auction comparison:Compare to a wood netsuke of a boar, by Hidari issan, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art including Selections from the Collection of Ruth and Carl Barron, 16 September 2014, New York, lot 2074 (sold for 5,625 USD).

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A COILED SNAKE, ATTRIBUTED TO OKATOMOAttributed to Yamaguchi Okatomo, unsigned Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2004) Outside the Box: Further Explorations in Japanese Netsuke and Lacquer, 2004, pp. 46-47, no. 20.A finely carved ivory netsuke of a snake neatly coiled upon itself with its head resting on its body, the flickering tongue extending from its mouth, the tail sweeping in an elegant sinuous fashion to provide the natural himotoshi, the eyes inlaid with dark horn. The scales are neatly incised and darkly stained, the head is further detailed with subtle stippling. The surface has an attractive pale yellow glossy patina, shading low on the body and underneath to a matte reddish tone.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, appealingly worn, few minor age cracks.Provenance: Sydney L. Moss Ltd, London, 2004. French private collection, acquired from the above.Museum comparison: Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a coiled snake by Yamaguchi Okatomo in the British Museum, registration number 1945,1017.603. This netsuke is also illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 621, where Frederick Meinertzhagen describes it as a “wonderfully fine snake netsuke, rather cruder than is usually the case with Okatomo's work, but absolutely real and alive and intensely attractive.” It was also included in the Red Cross exhibition in 1915, illustrated as no. 188, pl. LI.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2201700453-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.

SHOSAI: A WOOD NETSUKE WITH OTSU-E-FIGURESSigned Shosai 抄齋Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)Carved as a seated man opening a scroll from which four Otsu-e figures emerge, the group consisting of the standing falconer with his falcon on the left arm, Fujihime, in rich garb with a large hat and a wisteria twig over her shoulder, and two other figures. Small asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside, one ringed in green stained bone.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.

A BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF DARUMA, EDO PERIODJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as the Zen patriarch Daruma, sitting in a meditative pose, almost completely enveloped by the folds of his robe, showcasing a stern facial expression. The two symmetrical himotoshi at the bottom.HEIGHT 3.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor surface wear. Provenance: German private collection.

A LOT WITH THREE NETSUKE, 19th CENTURYJapan, 19th centuryThe first carved from wood as a karako (Chinese boy), standing and holding a leafy lotus flower, the himotshi running from top to bottom. The second a glazed ceramic netsuke of Jurojin, the lucky god wearing loose-fitted robe, holding a tama (magic pearl) in one hand, the other holding a gnarled staff, applied with a variety of glazes ranging from beige to gold and green, two himotoshi to the backside, the underside signed SHUZAN. The third carved from wood to depict a chanting monk seated on a beaded base, wearing a monk garment, the two himotoshi are at the back. HEIGHT 5.5 cm, 6 cm, and 6.7 cm Condition: With associated surface wear, few age cracks, and tiny nicks here and there. Provenance: Collection of Ted Adameck, thence by descent in the same family. Ted Adameck (1924-2019) was a legendary collector of Netsuke, active for many decades, operating two antique shops in Honolulu and writing countless articles and books on the subject as well as many others on Asian art and culture.

A SIGNED IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI WITH CUB, EDO PERIODJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The ivory netsuke with a fine honey hued patina, depicting a shishi and its young carved in a playful manner atop an oval base, with the shishi's head and one front paw resting on its cub. Both with a finely incised mane and a bushy tail, the spine of the big shishi neatly articulated. One central himotoshi to the bottom of the base as well as the incised artist signature. LENGTH 4.7 cm, HEIGHT 3 cm Condition: Very good condition with minimal wear, and a few fine age cracks. Provenance: Dutch collection. With a dealer's label to the underside.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306333/20).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

AFTER TOMOTADA: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH A BEAN-PODInscribed Tomotada 友忠Japan,19th centuryWell carved as a rat seated on its haunches, biting into a bean-pod, with neatly incised fur, large funnel-shaped ears, a long-curled tail, and inlaid eyes. Natural himotoshi between tail and body, with a rectangular reserve inscribed TOMOTADA at the bottom.HEIGHT 2.7 cm Condition: Good condition with minor surface wear, and a small chip to the right inlaid eye. Provenance: Private collection, Belgium.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING TEMPLE SERVANT, EDO PERIODJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved as a temple servant (eji), standing in a gentle slumped position, leaning against a parasol, with his eyes peacefully closed. The two himotoshi to the back. HEIGHT 6.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minimal wear. Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.