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A SHIBAYAMA-INLAID IVORY MANJU-STYLE NETSUKE DEPICTING AN INRO, RABBIT NETSUKE AND OJIMEUnsigned Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century Meiji period (1868-1912)Of rounded rectangular form, the flat top finely inlaid with dark horn, mother-of-pearl, and coral to depict a plain four-case inro with a globular ojime and a netsuke in the form of a rabbit, the cord neatly incised and darkly stained, the domed reverse similarly decorated with a blossoming prunus branch. Two himotoshi through the back.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, age cracks.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306309/20). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A SHIBAYAMA-INLAID IVORY NETSUKE OF A CAPARISONED SHISHIUnsigned Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Well carved as a recumbent shishi atop an oval base, the beast richly adorned with beads and tassels inlaid with coral, gilt-metal, horn, and stained bone, the saddlecloth further carved in relief with stylized lotus and scrolling foliage, its claws and face well detailed, the bushy mane, brows, and tail neatly incised, the base with two asymmetrical himotoshi.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few fine age cracks.Literature comparison: Compare a closely related inlaid ivory netsuke of a caparisoned shishi, signed Shibayama, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 727.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306305/20). 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 AMUSING EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A MAN PLUCKING HIS BEARDUnsigned Japan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved as a kneeling man wearing voluminous robes with subtle mother-of-pearl and bone inlays, plucking his beard with tweezers held in his right hand, his face with a humorously agonized expression, the mouth wide open as he lets out a scream, the underside well detailed with the man's feet and the folds of his robe, as well as two asymmetrical himotoshi, the details neatly incised and darkly stained.HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, appealingly worn.

AN EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A FARMER TYING HIS GETA AND CLEANING HIS TEETHUnsigned Japan, Edo (Tokyo), early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The elderly man crouching to tie the strap on one of his geta sandals, wearing a short robe tied at the waist and suspending a tonkotsu (tobacco box) and kiseru (pipe), a sickle attached to his back, his face contorted in a grimace as he cleans his teeth using a fusayoji (tufted toothpick). The side and back with generously excavated, asymmetrical himotoshi, the larger of which is of oval shape.HEIGHT 4.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and rubbing to patina.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.Chew sticks are twigs or roots of certain plants that are chewed until one end is frayed. This end can be used to brush against the teeth, while the other end can be used as a toothpick. The earliest chew sticks have been dated to Babylonia in 3500 BC and an Egyptian tomb from 3000 BC. They are mentioned in Chinese records dating from 1600 BC, in the Ayurvedas around the 4th century BC and in Tipitaka, in the Buddhist Canon around the 5th century BC in India. The custom came to Japan with Buddhism and became popular during the mid-Edo period. Fusayoji (tufted toothpicks) were made from fragrant trees such as willow and black letters and were sold at shrine precincts.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF SAIGYO HOSHI ADMIRING MOUNT FUJIUnsignedJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The priest and poet Saigyo Hoshi seated at the foot of Mount Fuji, gazing up and admiring the iconic peak, his hat and cane carved by his side next to a finely incised pine tree. The well-toned wood bearing a fine patina. Large, generously excavated himotoshi through the neatly polished base.LENGTH 5.5 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor and typical wear.Literature comparison:A similar item from the British Museum, formerly part of the Sir Augustus Wollaston Franks Collection, is illustrated by Joly, Henri (1908) Legend in Japanese Art, p. 155.

ITTOKUSAI: AN INTERESTING GOLD-LACQUERED WOOD OKIMONO NETSUKE OF DAIKOKUBy Ittokusai, signed Ittokusai 一徳齋Japan, 19th centuryThe lucky god standing and kneeling one leg against a straw rice bale, his treasure bag slung over his bag and holding his wish-granting mallet with a rat on top. His expression is marked with joy, framed by pendulous earlobes, and the facial features are carved in a rather unusual portrait-esque manner. Remnants of gold lacquer throughout, attractively worn. Himotoshi to the back and signed to the bag ITTOKUSAI.HEIGHT 6.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, the gold lacquer attractively worn. Remnants of wax to the underside.Provenance: Private collection, Germany, collected between 1920 and 1940 (sold at Nagel, Stuttgart, 12.5.2007, lot 2730). Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke III, 5 June 2015, Cologne, lot 1076. A noted private collection, USA, acquired from the above. Old label to the back: “Hömberg 189”, with ink markings.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

HIDESADA: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF OKAME AND FUKUSUKEBy Hidesada, signed Hidesada 秀貞Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The lucky dwarf with characteristically large head and formal dress, holding a fan and kneeling besides Okame, both with cheerful expressions as they marvel at the treasures on the offering table (sanbo) before them, the forked radish (futumata daikon) and inexhaustible money pouch (kanebukuro) associated with Daikoku (the god of wealth).WIDTH 4 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, few tiny age cracks. Okame's hand is re-attached.Fukusuke and Okame are often depicted together as they are both emblems of good luck. The motif of the present netsuke is associated with the New Year and expresses a wish for happiness and wealth.Museum comparison: Compare a closely related ivory netsuke by Hidechika depicting the same subject, in the Kunstpalast Düsseldorf, object number mkp.P 2005-208.

GYOKUMINSAI: A WOOD EDO SCHOOL NETSUKE OF A KARAKO PULLING HOTEI INSIDE HIS TREASURE BAGBy Gyokuminsai, signed Gyokuminsai 玉民齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as the lucky god Hotei relaxing inside his treasure bag, looking upwards and laughing, holding a bone-inlaid tama in his left hand, all while being pulled along by a karako (Chinese boy). Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed GYOKUMINSAI.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear and few traces of use including some tiny nicks.

SHUMIN: A WOOD NETSUKE OF DARUMABy Shumin, signed Shumin 舟民Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The Zen patriarch Daruma, bare-chested and almost completely enveloped in his robe, is shown meditating with a stern-faced expression. The garment folds are powerfully accentuated, and the facial expression is expertly crafted. The earrings are inlaid and the large and asymmetrical himotoshi are ringed in stained bone. Signed SHUMIN, who was a pupil from the Shugetsu line of carvers.HEIGHT 4.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.Provenance: Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, purchased at Hotel Drouot, Paris, in 2004.Auction comparison:A closely related netsuke of Daruma, by Shumin, was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 190 (sold for 2,022 EUR).

A WOOD NETSUKE OF AN ONI AT SETSUBUN, ATTRIBUTED TO ROKKOUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, late 19th century Well carved as a muscular oni running to escape from those pelting him with soybeans, holding a large straw hat over his back and head, his two horns poking through the hat. His hair, brows, garment, and straw hat are neatly incised. The pupils are inlaid with ebony, the mouth agape in an agonized expression showing teeth and sharp fangs. The straw hat with two asymmetrical himotoshi. HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Provenance: Collection Prof. Henk Hoogsteden, Rotterdam. Formerly in a French private collection purchased from Galerie Yamato, Paris, 2004.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.Literature comparison: Compare a closely related wood netsuke of an oni at Setsubun by Rokko, 4.5 cm high, dated 19th century, illustrated in Sagemonoya (2001) Netsuke That Never Left Japan, no. 25. Compare a closely related wood netsuke of an oni at Setsubun by Rokko, 5.7 cm high, dated 19th century, illustrated in Galerie Zacke (1982) Netsuke, no. 112.

SHOKO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF IDATEN SUBDUING AN ONIBy Shoko Sugonoya, signed Shoko 尚古Japan, Hida-Takayama, second half of 19th centuryThe okimono-style netsuke finely carved to depict Idaten dressed in full Tang Chinese armor including an elaborate feathered helmet, with windswept sleeves, pressing his knee and hand down against an oni, the looted pagoda-shaped reliquary in the deity's other hand, the entire composition set on a cloud-shaped base. The eye pupils are minutely inlaid in dark horn. Signed underneath SHOKO. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear. A tiny pinhole to the interior of the sleeve.Provenance: Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, purchased at Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke III, 5 June 2015, Cologne, lot 1196.Literature comparison:The subject appears to be rare. For another variation of this subject, by Nishino Shoko, described as Bishamonten pursuing an oni, see the International Netsuke Collectors Society Journal (INCSJ), vol. 10, no. 4, p. 44, no. 79.

GYOKKO: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A ONI WASHING A RAKANBy Gyokko, signed Gyokko 玉光Japan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryAn oni (devil) strains to scrub the back of a rakan bathing in a tub. Rakan are the disciples or followers of Buddha, called arhat in sanskrit, vaguely comparable to the apostles. They are bald and wear rings on their ears. The rakan here pulls an amusingly grim face as the oni deliberately works on him with all his force. The details such as the expressions and the cloth held by the rakan are superbly carved, the ivory is attractively stained, and the tub is minutely stippled and stained with sumi (ink). Two himotoshi underneath and signed within an oval reserve GYOKKO.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor typical wear. Remnants of wax from an old label.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-0143).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A LARGE IVORY MANJU NETSUKE OF A DRAGON ABOVE WAVESUnsignedJapan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The thick manju netsuke worked in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with fine engraving, the details enhanced with sumi (ink), depicting a sinuous dragon below clouds, the reverse engraved with crashing waves. The cord attachment through the eyelet housed inside the central peg.DIAMETER 5.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and few natural age cracks.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0129). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

IKKOSAI: AN IVORY MANJU NETSUKE OF A DRUNKEN SHOJOBy Ikkosai Kojitsu, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part manju worked in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with a drunken shojo dancing; holding a sake ladle and fan, her robe neatly detailed and engraved with various patterns, and her hair and lips stained red. The reverse is engraved with red sake saucer (sakazuki) and the signature IKKOSAI. Ikkosai Kojitsu was an accomplished pupil of Meikeisai Hojitsu. Central himotoshi through the back, the cord attachment within.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Max Rutherston Ltd., 2012. Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, acquired from the above.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL311535/20). 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.

SORIN: AN IVORY MANJU NETSUKE WITH DAIKOKU AND RATBy Sorin, signed Sorin 宗琳 and kakihanJapan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part manju finely worked in shishiaibori (sunken relief) with a charming image of the lucky god of wealth Daikoku leaning against his treasure bag and his extending his wish-granting mallet (uchide no kozuchi), while a rat clambers onto the hammer and presents a tama (magical jewel) to the lucky deity. The details are stained with ink and red pigments. The reverse is engraved with lucky treasures and signed SORIN and kakihan. Central, florally rimmed himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment within.DIAMETER 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.Provenance: Christie's, Asian Art, 19 July 2007, London, lot 13 (part lot, sold for 1,020 GBP). Belgian private collection, acquired from the above.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0130). 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 WALRUS TUSK NETSUKE OF A GROUP OF NOH THEATRE ACCOUTREMENTSUnsignedJapan, c. 1860Including a shishimai mask, a hyottoko mask, a fan, a wig, a drum, a rattle, a toy bird, a fan and a scythe. The studs of the drum and the eyes of the toy bird are inlaid in dark horn. Two himotoshi underneath.LENGTH 3.6 cmCondition: Good condition with minor expected wear. A small loss to the nose of the shishimai mask.Provenance: Collection Prof. Henk Hoogsteden, Rotterdam.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF OTSUYU WITH THE PEONY LANTERNUnsignedJapan, Meiji period (1868-1912)Carved as Otsuyu's skeleton from the kaidan (ghost story) of the Botan Doro (peony lantern). The skeleton shown here with a large lotus leaf on her head, carrying a large dragon mask on her back, its horns protruding through the leaf, and holding the peony lantern by its side. The details are finely carved. The cord channel runs through underneath the dragon mask.HEIGHT 7 cmCondition: Chip to one horn of the dragon, otherwise good condition with minor 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.According to the Kaidan Botan Doro, Otsuyu, a devoted wife, having died, rose nightly from her grave to rejoin her husband secretly. But on revealing the secret he also met a gruesome death.Literature comparison:There are only two other netsuke recorded of this subject. Both are illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures (LNIA), Vol. 2, p. 1076, one being signed Tametaka and the other attributed to Tametaka.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0140).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.

SHURAKU: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A ROKUROKUBI SCARING A BLIND MANBy Shuraku, signed Shuraku 秀樂Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and bearing an attractive yellowish stain, the blind man leaning against his staff, behind him the towering Rokurokubi tries to scare him, the bakemono's long neck movable and fixed with a peg to the side. Large himotoshi through the back and signed within an oval reserve SHURAKU.HEIGHT 5.1 cm (neck not extended)Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear and few natural 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.Museum comparison:Compare a wood netsuke depicting the same subject, by Ryukei, in The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), New York, accession no. 10.211.2369.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0135).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.

GYOKKEI: A FINE INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A SAMBASO DANCERBy Gyokkei, signed Gyokkei 玉珪Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryFinely carved as a sambaso dancer depicted in movement, his face, bell-tree, feet and eboshi hat inlaid, the lightly stained wood robe neatly polished and embellished with green-stained pine leaves. Good himotoshi through the back and signed within an inlaid plaque GYOKKEI.HEIGHT 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear.

TADACHIKA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO PLAYING KARAKOBy Tadachika, signed Tadachika 忠親Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two Chinese boys seated across from each other, one hiding a demon mask behind his back and making the bekkako gesture, while his companion playfully grabs him by the arms. The details are finely carved and the clothes are embellished with meticulously rendered patterns. The ivory is lightly stained. The underside shows the signature TADACHIKA (a pupil of Tomochika) within a wavy reserve. Natural himotoshi.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: An old Dutch private collection. Pranger Oriental Art, Amsterdam. Collection Prof. Henk Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, acquired from the above.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL311532/20). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF ASHINAGA AND TENAGA CATCHING A FISHUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The symbiotic pair of yokai-fishermen working together to catch a fish, Ashinaga stepping on the fish and Tenaga pulling it out from underneath his foot. The legendary pair is depicted here in an unusual and humorous manner as foreigners, the long-armed Tenaga in the back pulling up the long-legged Ashinaga's robe to protect it from the water. The details are finely carved, the well-toned wood bearing a fine patina, the eyes inlaid in dark horn. Good himotoshi through the back.HEIGHT 7.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor expected wear. Tiny chip to the side of one foot and around the himotoshi.

A TOMOCHIKA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF ASHINAGA AND TENAGAUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, Ashinaga with his long legs drawn to his body, a drum at his hip, while Tenaga places his long arms on his companion's knees. The pair is depicted here as islanders with curly hair and clad only in loincloths. The facial features are sublimely carved. One himotoshi through the underside. Unsigned, however in the style of Chikuyosai Tomochika of Edo. Due to the use of wood and the fine patina this is likely an early piece from this famous school.LENGTH 3.8 cm, HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor wear and traces of use. Beautiful patina.Provenance: Ex-collection Papp, collection no. 466, purchased from Helmut Laudenbach, Berg, on 20 November 1986. Lempertz, The Papp Collection of Netsuke, 16 June 2018, Cologne, lot 1029. Collection Prof. Henk Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, acquired from the above.

A TALL EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF ASHINAGA AND TENAGAUnsignedJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A tall and boldly carved ebony wood netsuke depicting the two legendary yokai-fishermen working together to catch a fish. The long-legged Ashinaga is struggling to support Tenaga on his back with his short arms, grabbing his companion by his feet, who as a result hangs over Ashinaga's shoulders in an amusingly awkward position while desperately reaching with his long arms to pull the fish out of the water. A remarkably well-carved and characterful rendition of this classic subject. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 10.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition. Minor wear.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF SHOKIUnsignedJapan, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The demon queller standing with his sword drawn by his side, his face with a grim expression, the eyes inlaid, his loosely fitted robe well carved with windswept sleeves. Natural himotoshi between Shoki's arm and body.HEIGHT 6.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and few natural age cracks.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2207509527-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 SUPERB AND LARGE OSAKA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A PEASANTUnsignedJapan, Osaka, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Superbly carved as an old peasant wearing an elaborately carved headcloth and robe with expressively carved garment folds, fondling a bag with both hands, the facial features masterfully carved with many wrinkles and pronounced cheekbones. Good, chimney-type himotoshi to the back. The well-toned wood bearing a fine patina. HEIGHT 9.4 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear and traces of use. The feet have been repaired and there are a few fills to the robe as visible in the images provided.Unsigned, however in the style of the enigmatic master carver Sanko who seldomly signed his carvings and whom many famous works are attributed to such as the legendary 'Meinertzhagen Kirin'. A work depicting a man-faced kirin, which is attributed to the artist, has recently broken the world record for a netsuke at auction (441,375 USD).Another possibility is a later generation of artists working in the Osaka style, such as Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936), though the present piece certainly has an earlier feel to it. For a similar example by this artist see The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET), New York, accession no. 10.211.2319.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of an Oni Nenbutsu, signed Sanko, at Bonhams, Netsuke from the Collection of Joseph and Elena Kurstin, 16 December 2022, New York, lot 32 (sold for 96,135 USD). Also compare an ivory netsuke of Ryujin, attributed to Sanko, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 65 (sold for 9,150 EUR).

A POWERFUL SAISHIKI NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONI, STYLE OF YOSHIMURA SHUZANJapan, Osaka, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved and well painted as the demon queller Shoki lifting a fierce little oni by its neck, the poor demon unable to free itself, and holding a sword in his right hand. Shoki's face with a grim expression marked by furrowed brows and a long, neatly incised beard. Large himotoshi.HEIGHT 8.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear.Literature comparison:Compare a related saishiki netsuke of Shoki with an oni, attributed to Yoshimura Shuzan, illustrated in Arakawa, Hirokazu (1983) The Go Collection of Netsuke. Tokyo National Museum, p. 16, no. 12. A saishiki netsuke of Shoki, by a follower of Shuzan, dated to the late 18th century, is in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, accession number M.87.263.93.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related saishiki netsuke depicting Shoki and oni at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 275 (sold for 12,640 EUR).

A WOOD NETSUKE OF SHOKI TRAPPING AN ONIUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The demon queller shown here with a fierce expression and pressing his weight down against a tattered straw hat, his sword drawn, a squirming oni trapped underneath. The details are finely carved and the lightly stained wood bears a good, dark patina. Himotoshi to Shoki's back.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Good condition. Few splits to the wood and possibly some old chips to the tattered hat.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

HIROSHI ASAOKA: A CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF SHOKI SEARCHING FOR AN ONI OJIMEBy Hiroshi Asaoka (born 1923), signed Shodo 昇堂Japan, Tokyo, 20th centuryFinely carved in pale boxwood, depicting the demon queller Shoki, his sword drawn, looking through a well and searching for the oni, in the form of an ojime, which is attached to the netsuke with a cord. Signed underneath Shoki's robe SHODO.HEIGHT 4.1 cm (the netsuke), HEIGHT 2.1 cm (the ojime)Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Hiroshi Asaoka, born in Tokyo in the year 1923, was a master of intricate detailed carvings who studied under Shomin.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

YOSHIKANE: A SUPERB TALL WOOD NETSUKE OF BASHIKO SENNINBy Yoshikane, signed Yoshikane 美兼Japan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryThe sennin dressed in an elaborately flowing, loosely fitted robe, with artemisia leaves carved in the back, a hyotan (double gourd) containing the elixir of life tied to his waist, reading from a scroll, his mouth agape dramatically, a sinuous dragon coiling outwards from within his robe and wrapping its scaly body around Bashiko, its head terminating on top of the sennin's head, one claw grabbing the gnarly staff to Bashiko's side. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. The details are exceptionally carved, and the wood is skilfully stained, the eyes of the sennin and dragon are inlays of dark horn. An inscription to the scroll reads 天下泰平、国家安 [peace reigns over the land, safe and security of the nation] next to the signature YOSHIKANE - a rarely encountered artist who worked in the style of Rokko.HEIGHT 10.7 cmCondition: Tiny chip to one of the dragon's dorsal spikes, the toes of the sennin with repairs. Otherwise excellent condition with minor expected wear.The subject is quite rare in netsuke art and usually misidentified as Chinnan Sennin or Rakan Handaka Sonja, who are both usually depicted with alms bowls from which they conjure the dragon. Bashiko Sennin was a healer of animals who came upon a sick dragon and remedied the dragon's ailments with acupuncture. It is also possible that the present netsuke depicts Ryujin, the Dragon King of the Sea, depicted here in a sennin-like manner. Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke by Yoshikane, depicting Gama sennin with toad, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures (LNIA), Vol. 2, p. 1232. Another wood netsuke by Yoshikane, depicting Chinnan sennin, is illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art (1996) Netsuke Through Three Centuries, pp. 80-81, no. 69.

SHUMIN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TEMPLE SERVANTBy Hara Shumin, signed Shumin 秀民Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 775.International Netsuke Society Journal (INSJ), Winter 2021, vol.41, no. 4, p. 27 (Advert by Sydney L. Moss Ltd.)Finely carved as a temple servant, seated in a relaxed pose and chanting, his eboshi tied around his neck in the back, the details exquisitely carved, the wood skillfully stained. The underside shows the elaborately crafted himotoshi formed by a large opening of the sleeve and a smaller himotoshi ringed in green-stained antler, as well as the signature SHUMIN.HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: Ex-collection H. Ellis, sold at Glendining's, 9 November 1928, London.

ROKKO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A CHASEN (TEA WHISK) VENDORBy Rokko, signed Rokko 六甲Japan, Edo/Tokyo, mid to late 19th centuryFinely carved as a man with a large bag slung over his bag, presenting his kagurachasen (whisk-tree), a hyotan tied to his obi. The man's facial features are carved with masterful detail, the tiny pupils are inlaid in dark horn. Himotoshi through the back and signed to the hem of the robe ROKKO.HEIGHT 5.5 cmCondition: Repair to the left foot. Otherwise excellent condition with minor expected wear.

A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL SHUNGA WOOD NETSUKE OF OKAME CRADLING A HUGE MUSHROOMUnsignedJapan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as the mirthful Shinto deity Okame kneeling and cradling a large mushroom of distinctly phallic shape in a suggestive position on her lap, laughing gleefully as a result. Her neatly tied up hair is finely carved, her kimono tied in the back houses the himotoshi. The well-toned wood bearing a beautiful, dark patina. Unsigned, however likely by a talented Nagoya carver such as Ittan.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor expected wear and a fine patina.Provenance: Sold at Glendining's, 9 November 1928, London. Ex-collection H. Ellis, acquired from the above. Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of man with Okame mask cradling a huge phallus at Bonhams, Netsuke from the Collection of Joseph and Elena Kurstin, 16 December 2022, New York, lot 7 (sold for 6,375 USD).

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMANUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The early and tactile ivory netsuke of distinct triangular section (sankaku) and carved as a seated Dutchman wearing a characteristic hat and robe, and holding a fan in his left hand. Very large and generously excavated himotoshi through the back and underside. The ivory bearing a fine, yellowish honey patina.HEIGHT 5.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and several natural age cracks.Provenance: Belgian collection, purchased from Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 17 May 2018, lot 21 (part lot, sold for 3,500 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0131). 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.

TOMO: AN EARLY OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEISigned with a single character Tomo 友Japan, Osaka, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A beautifully tactile and pleasingly worn ivory netsuke, bearing a deep honey patina, depicting the potbellied lucky god Hotei with his hands behind his back, his face framed by pendulous earlobes, the mouth slightly opened with a smile. Large himotoshi to the back and signed with a single character TOMO enclosed within a wavy reserve.HEIGHT 5.6 cmCondition: Good, attractively worn condition. Several natural age cracks.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0121). 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 WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING HOTEIUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An old and pleasingly tactile netsuke depicting the lucky god Hotei reclining and supporting his head in the right hand, wearing a loosely fitted robe, opening at the chest and revealing his potbelly, the surface pleasingly worn, the back with very large and generously excavated himotoshi.LENGTH 8 cmCondition: Very good condition, the surface pleasingly worn, minor traces of use, fine patina.

AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECLINING SAGEUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The Chinese sage dressed in a voluminous robe and depicted in a reclining posture, leaning on one elbow, looking upwards and smiling. Large, generously excavated himotoshi to the back. Beautiful deep-yellow patina throughout, turning honey-colored in the back.LENGTH 7.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor typical wear and very few natural age cracks.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306352/20).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH CHILDUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Typically depicted with shoulder-length, curling hair and exaggerated features, clad in a coat of finely detailed texture with a pleated collar, carrying a boy on his back and a trumpet in his right hand. The expression of each is very finely crafted, the eyes with minutely carved pupils. The wood bearing a fine patina, large himotoshi through the back.HEIGHT 7.2 cmCondition: Repair to the right leg of the boy. Otherwise in good condition with typical wear and traces of use.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.In the Edo period, Dutch merchants were the only Europeans admitted to Japan, where they were confined to the island of Deshima. Netsuke representing foreigners were popular in this period, and a number of examples in ivory are in museum collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of New York (no. 10.211.1506) and the British Museum (F.558). Interestingly, the lapa (trumpet) in this Dutchman's hand is also foreign, being of Chinese origin.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a Dutchman with child, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 17 (sold for 3,034 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SENNIN WITH ONIUnsignedJapan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The gleefully laughing sennin standing tall and dressed in an elaborately flowing robe with incised cloud designs and wearing a tiger pelt cloak over his shoulders. He holds a fruiting branch in one hand while a mischievously grinning oni seated behind on his shoulders is grasping after the stem of the branch. Fine patina, particularly to the back.HEIGHT 9.3 cmCondition: Very good condition. The ivory slightly worn with a fine patina. A signature has been added, though is easily removed.This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF AN IMMORTALUnsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved to depict a Chinese immortal dressed in armor and billowing robes, holding a dragon staff in his right hand, the left raised at the chest with the palm facing to the side, the mouth slightly agape as he looks up toward the sky, his wild windswept hair neatly incised, the wood darkly stained for effect, the back with two asymmetrical himotoshi.HEIGHT 9 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, a loss to the dragon staff and a few minor chips which have smoothened over time.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON WITH TAMAUnsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly and powerfully carved as a one-horned, three-clawed dragon coiled around a large tama, its tail curling underneath the magical jewel, the scales and spine neatly incised, the beast further detailed with long trailing whiskers, large eyes, a spiky beard, and sharp fangs and claws, the tama with large, asymmetrical himotoshi.HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, few minor nicks.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A DRAGON EMERGING FROM AN ASH POT (HAIFUKI KARA RYU)Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved to depict a ferocious three-clawed dragon with sinuous body emerging from a cylindrical ash pot within a tabako-bon (smoking set), the beast well detailed with neatly incised scales, spiky brows and beard, and large eyes, the mouth wide open revealing tongue and teeth. The base of the tabako-bon with two generously excavated asymmetrical himotoshi. LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, light surface scratches.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.The present netsuke illustrates the proverb Haifuki kara ryu ('a dragon issuing from an ash container'), which is analogous to the expression Hyotan kara koma ('a horse out of a gourd'), both conveying the idea of something unexpected happening. Another meaning of the former is said to be the hot air of a braggart. Sometimes daija (large snake) is substituted in this proverb for ryu. See Jonas, F. M. (1928) Netsuke, p. 112, and Volker, T. (1975) The Animal in Far Eastern Art, p. 64.

TAMETAKA: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT OXSigned Tametaka 為隆Japan, Nagoya, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Powerfully carved as a recumbent ox, its head lowered and tail flung to one side, the rope halter draped across its back, the ribs and spine subtly carved, the fur finely incised, the animal well detailed with curved horns, funnel-shaped ears, and large eyes double-inlaid with horn and dark pupils. The underside with large asymmetrical himotoshi and the signature TAMETAKA.LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few small nicks. Provenance: Bonhams, 14 December 2020, Los Angeles, lot 251 (sold for 3,825 USD). Literature comparison:Compare to two wood netsuke depicting oxen by Tametaka in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures (LNIA), Vol. 2, p. 1075.

IKKO: A WOOD OKIMONO NETSUKE OF FIVE RATS AROUND DAIKOKU'S TREASURE BAGBy Ikko, signed Ikko 一光Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved and deeply stained as the lucky god Daikoku's treasure bag, with neatly worked tassels and cords, and five rats with neatly incised fur and horn-inlaid eyes climbing around, into, and emerging from the bag. Asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed IKKO.LENGTH 5.1 cmCondition: One loss to one of the cords. Otherwise good condition with minor expected surface wear.Provenance: Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke III, 5 June 2015, Cologne, lot 1237. A noted private collection, USA, acquired from the above.Auction comparison:Compare to a related ivory okimono netsuke of rats by Ikko at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 222 (sold for 5,490 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT ON TREASURE BAGUnsignedJapan, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a rat clambering on top of Daikoku's bag of riches, the large eyes of the rat inlaid in dark horn and the details stained with sumi (ink). The ivory bearing a fine honey patina. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition. Minor expected wear.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0089). 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.

KAJIKAWA: A FINE LACQUER SUZURIBAKO (WRITING BOX) DEPICTING BOYS AT PLAYBy a member of the Kajikawa family, signed Kajikawa saku and with pot seal EiJapan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of rectangular form with a flush-fitting (inrobuta) cover and silver rims. The exterior with a gyobu nashiji ground, the cover with a shaped panel bearing a mirror-black ground, finely decorated in colored takamaki-e and hiramaki-e with three karako, two of which are mischievously drawing with brushes on their sleeping companion, an inkstone and lesson book on the ground beside them.The interior of the cover with a rich gold hirame ground similarly decorated with five boys wearing elaborate patterned robes, one riding a hobby horse, three playing musical instruments, and one standing behind a tsuitate (standing screen) depicting a misty mountain landscape superbly rendered in sumi-e togidashi-e and bearing the signature and seal of the Kano painter Isen'in (Naganobu, 1775-1828).The interior bearing a nashiji ground and fitted with a nine-section board (ita) with two raised sections above and below the inkstone (suzuri), the upper section cut with a recess for the lozenge-shaped gilt-copper and silver waterdropper (suiteki), signed underneath the inkstone KAJIKAWA saku [made by Kajikawa] with a red 'tsubo' seal Ei.SIZE 4.6 x 21 x 23 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and few small losses to lacquer.Provenance: Christie's, 18 September 2013, New York, lot 680. The Paul and Helen Anbinder Collection, acquired from the above. Paul Anbinder (b. 1940) is a retired editor who was a director at important publishers including Random House and Hudson Hills. Helen Anbinder (1942-2022) was an education administrator who ran the Inter-village Continuing Education Program for Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings, and Irvington, New York. The couple were avid museumgoers and collectors of art. They donated many books and prints from their collection to their alma mater Cornell University and the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art.With a wood storage box (tomobako).The Kajikawa family were Japanese lacquerware artists whose school in Edo flourished for more than 200 years. Kyujiro is generally acknowledged as the founder of the family and the inaugurator of its traditions. He excelled in designing particularly delicate lacquer inro. Kajikawa artists also designed lacquer netsuke. Suzuribako by this school are considerably rarer than inro and netsuke.Museum comparison: Compare a lacquer suzuribako, also signed Kajikawa saku and with a red seal, in the collection of the Freer Gallery of Art in the National Museum of Asian Art, Smithsonian Institution, accession number F1955.24a-e.Auction comparison: Compare a lacquer suzuribako, also signed Kajikawa saku and with a red pot seal, at Christie's, 1 October 2020, New York, lot 21 (sold for 18,750 USD).

TOMOKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RATBy Tomokazu, signed Tomokazu 友一Japan, Gifu, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a rat (nezumi) tightly gripping its tail which curls around underneath its body, forming a compact composition, the fur finely incised and the wood bearing a fine patina. The eyes are inlaid in dark lustrous horn and the two visible incisors underneath are inlaid in bone. The underside with the signature within the typical oval reserve TOMOKAZU. Natural himotoshi through the tail.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Few tiny chips, a section of the tail repaired. Otherwise, good condition with minor wear.Provenance: From a noted private collection in California, USA. Purchased at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art including selections from the collection of Ruth and Carl Barron, 16 September 2014, New York, lot 2067.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke signed Tomokazu, at Lempertz, Asian Art, 11 December 2021, Cologne, lot 362 (sold for 4,250 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY, CRAB AND LOTUSUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryThe two arch enemies locked into combat, the monkey pulling on the legs of the crab, which hides underneath a furled lotus leaf, while one of the crab's pincers pierces through the leaf, pinching the monkey into its extended hindleg while the simian yelps out in pain. The details are finely carved and the ivory is attractively stained. The cord channel runs through underneath the crab's legs into a generously excavated singular himotoshi.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor 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.The present netsuke is a reference to the story of 'The Crab and the Monkey', in which a sly monkey kills a crab, and is later killed in revenge by the crab's offspring.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0148).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.

KAZUMASA: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY PICKING FLEASBy Kazumasa (Issei), signed Kazumasa 一政Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a large monkey with finely incised hairwork and horn-inlaid eyes, one hand scratching his back and the other in the front having picked off a flea. Natural himotoshi and signed within a polished reserve to the behind KAZUMASA (Issei).HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Repairs to the feet and one hand. Otherwise good condition with minor wear.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

YUZAN: AN UNUSUAL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL EMERGING FROM ITS SHELLBy Yuzan, signed Yuzan 友山Japan, 19th centuryWell carved to depict a snail in a rather unusual position with its body extended outward from its shell and head turned to one side, the eyes inlaid with horn, the spiraling shell neatly incised. The underside with two himotoshi, one to the snail's body and the other to the shell, the snail's body incised with the signature YUZAN.LENGTH 5 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear, few small nicks, tiny loss to the tip of one tentacle.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.”

YOSHIKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TORTOISEBy Yoshikazu (Ryoichi), signed Yoshikazu 良一Japan, Gifu, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A simple, wonderfully carved, and tactile wood netsuke depicting a tortoise almost completely retracted within its carapace. The outer shell is decorated with neatly arranged hexagonal patterns, the surface appealingly worn, and the underside shows the retracted limbs and head, covered in minutely etched scales. The cord attachment is in the form of an eyelet inset into the removable scale within the carapace. Signed within an oval reserve YOSHIKAZU - School of Kano Tomokazu of Gifu. The wood is beautifully worn with an unctuous patina.LENGTH 5.8 cmCondition: Good, worn condition with some traces of use including a chip to the removable section of the carapace and few scratches to the underside.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.Museum comparison:Compare to a wood netsuke of a group of tortoises by the same artist in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), formerly in the collection of Raymond and Frances Bushell, accession no. AC1998.249.40.Literature comparison:Compare to a wood netsuke of a tortoise, by Kano Tomokazu, illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 232, no. 715.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

AN OLD WOOD NETSUKE OF A TORTOISEUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A boldly carved netsuke of considerable heft and bulkiness, yet smooth and rounded, making it very appealing to hold in the hand. Depicting a tortoise which has almost entirely retreated into its shell, with only the tip of the head being visible from above, the underside showing the limbs and curved tail as well as the large eyes inlaid with dark horn, the skin expressed with dense incision work, the carapace and plastron finely incised, the underside with large asymmetrical himotoshi. The wood with a fine, smooth patina from gentle handling over centuries.LENGTH 5.5 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, light surface scratches, the carapace with small pin holes, one partly with an old wood fill.

SEIGYOKU: A WOOD NETSUKE OF THREE TURTLES IN A PYRAMIDBy Seigyoku, signed Seigyoku 清玉Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely and amusingly carved as a mother turtle, who has almost completely retreated into her shell, surmounted by her two young clambering over each other as they try to get the most sunlight. The carapaces are neatly incised and the warty skin is carved in ukibori. The underside with two himotoshi and the signature SEIGYOKU. LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, two 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.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke by Gyokumin, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 97.Auction comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of three turtles in a pyramid by Kogyoku at Galerie Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 197 (sold for 1,250 EUR).

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.

SUKENAGA: A RARE ITTOBORI YEW WOOD NETSUKE OF A CROUCHING FROGBy Matsuda Sukenaga, signed Sukenaga 亮長Japan, Takayama, Hida Province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The crouching amphibian carved from ichii (yew) wood and worked in the ittobori (single cut) technique, the surface beautifully worn, the two-toned wood cleverly utilized, the eyes inlaid in dark horn resulting in a very amusing expression. Asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed SUKENAGA.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear and traces of use including some tiny nicks and surface scratches.Takayama ittobori netsuke are still being produced to this very day, however, it is quite rare to find early pieces such as the present netsuke.The composition is reminiscent of the early 20th century cubism art movement pioneered by Pablo Picasso and Georges Braque, who were heavily influenced by Japanese art.Literature comparison:Ittobori netsuke by the celebrated artist Matsuda Sukenaga are rare. A closely related model of a frog, also by Sukenaga, is illustrated in Bushell, Raymond Netsuke (1975) Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 129, no. 212. For another example depicting a Hannya mask, showing similar wear, see Bandini, Rosemary (2019), The Larry Caplan Collection of Japanese Netsuke, no. 49. Auction comparison:Compare to a later ittobori netsuke of a monkey, by Sukenori, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 139 (sold for 1,342 EUR).

AN EARLY WOOD NETSUKE OF A CAT DEVOURING A FISHUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A beautifully rounded and charming wood netsuke of a cat (neko) with curling tail, holding a fish between its forepaws, the head lowered, and taking a bite. The feline's expression radiating with satisfaction as a result. The surface is beautifully worn and smooth to the touch - a true tactile pleasure in the hand! The underside with very large and generously excavated himotoshi.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Good, worn condition. Some old chips. Beautiful patina.Provenance: From the collection of Gisela Leitner wife of of the German conductor Ferdinand Leitner (1912–1996). Leitner studied under Franz Schreker, Julius Prüwer, Artur Schnabel and Karl Muck. Among his more than 300 recordings is a celebrated recording of Ferruccio Busoni's Doktor Faust. He also conducted the Berlin Philharmonic for Wilhelm Kempff's 1961 cycle of Beethoven's piano concertos.

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT HORSEUnsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved with the legs drawn in for compactness, the tail flung to one side and partly covering a hind leg, the head lowered and turned slightly to one side, the neatly incised mane elegantly falling in strands down either side of the spine, the animal further detailed with almond-shaped eyes, the underside carved with the legs and the asymmetrical himotoshi, the larger of which is generously excavated to accommodate the knot.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and expected traces of use including some tiny nicks here and there.

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A WOLF AND SKELETON, ATTRIBUTED TO SHOKOAttributed to Shoko Sugonoya, unsignedJapan, Hida-Takayama, mid to late 19th centuryThe okimono-style netsuke finely carved as a wolf and skeleton embroiled in a vicious fight, the skeleton with one of its hands at the wolf's neck, the other on its forehead, while the wolf desperately tries to fend the skeleton off. The skeleton with superbly carved and openworked ribs, the skull neatly stippled and incised with simulated cracks. The wolf with finely incised fur, neatly articulated spine and ribs, and double-inlaid eyes in bone and dark horn. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, minuscule nibbling to edges. The subject is an allusion to the tragic story of unrequited love between the military leader Fukakusa Shosho and the celebrated poetess Ono no Komachi. The former died trying to convince the latter of his love for her while the poetess was left to endure a solitary old age. Her pride is personified by the skeleton whilst the passion of Fukakusa is represented by the wolf.Literature comparison:Compare a closely related netsuke by Shoko in the collection of the Los Angeles County Museum, accession number AC1998.249.281; and another is illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 748. Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke by Shoko sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 129 (sold for 8,848 EUR).

SUKETADA: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAMBy Eguro Suketada, signed Suketada 亮忠Japan, Takayama, Hida province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A very finely carved study of a kappa with one hind foot caught in the jaws of a hamaguri clam as it climbs over it. The warty skin of the kappa is masterfully rendered, the eyes are inlaid, the shell is finely carved and the long hairs surrounding the kappa's swirling vital fluids on the head are minutely incised. The surface of the clam is highly polished and attractively stained. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi ringed in stained bone through the underside and signed SUKETADA.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few minuscule nicks.Provenance: French private collection, purchased from Galerie Yamato, Paris, in 2003.Auction comparison:Compare to a very similar netsuke by Suketada sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 16 May 2013, London, lot 34 (sold for 5,250 GBP). Also compare to another very similar netsuke by Suketada more recently sold at Koller Auktionen, Asiatica: Japan, Indien, Südostasien, 4 June 2019, Zurich, lot 410 (sold for 6,000 CHF).

TOYOYO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TENGU (TENGU NO TOMAGO)By Toyoyo (Toyoyasu, 1811-1883), signed Toyoyo 豊容Japan, Sasayama, Tanba Province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2006) More Things in Heaven and Earth, pp. 112-113, no. 49.Masterfully carved as a hatching karasu (crow-beaked) tengu climbing out of its egg with its two hands holding on to the edge of the shell, triumphantly screeching, one large wing trailing over the cracked shell to its left. The eyes are inlaid in pale translucent horn with black drilled pupils. Note the extremely fine carving of the plumage, accentuated with black coloring, typical for the Tanba school artists. The slightly worn wood with a very good patina. The egg is smoothly polished and the large asymmetrical himotoshi are found underneath, the larger one generously excavated to accommodate the knot. It is also worth noting that this netsuke stands on the smaller himotoshi. Signed TOYOYO with boldly incised characters.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, few tiny nicks around the himotoshi, and one fine short age crack.Provenance: Italian private collection. Sydney L. Moss, London, 2005. French private collection, acquired from the above.Toyoyo (1811-1883), also known as Toyoyasu or Hidari Toyomasa, was the son and best pupil of Naito Toyomasa (1773-1856). There is ample evidence that many netsuke signed Toyomasa were in fact made by Toyoyo, who was left-handed. Toyoyo seldomly signed with his own name.

HAKURYU: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT OXBy Unsho Hakuryu II, signed Hakuryu 白龍Japan, Kyoto, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as an ox lying in a recumbent pose with the legs drawn in and tail flung to one side, the head turned to the same side, looking ahead with eyes inlaid in mother-of-pearl, the rope halter slung around the neck, the fur neatly incised and stained in variegated shades of brown to indicate piebald markings, the spine well carved, the underside with asymmetrical himotoshi and the signature HAKURYU.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear, few fine age cracks, tiny chip to the tip of one horn. Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.The present netsuke is a rare example from this artist, who is better known for his carvings of tigers.Literature comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a calf and cow by Hakuryu II, similarly carved and stained with piebald markings, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 438, and another in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part A, p. 121.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0149).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.