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A KYOTO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY WITH ACORNSUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Expressively carved as a monkey firmly gripping a branch issuing three acorns, one of them having already fallen off, the monkey's body nestled into a group of leaves, its fur neatly incised and expression quite amusing with inlaid pupils at the bottom of the eyes. Natural himotoshi. The style of the carving is reminiscent of Mitsuhide of Kyoto.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Good condition. Some wear and typical traces of use. A crack through the branch. 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.

A LARGE KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A RABBITUnsignedJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The hare (usagi) seated with its back arched and head lowered, the long ears laid back, forming a compact composition, the eyes inlaid in reddish horn. The ivory bearing a superb, honey-yellow patina. Natural himotoshi. Unsigned, however certainly Kyoto school and stylistically close to Yoshinaga and his followers.LENGTH 5.1 cmCondition: The right fore paw restored. A tiny chip to one ear. Overall good condition with several natural age cracks and a superb patina.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a hare, by Yoshinaga, at Bonhams, The Julius & Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part I, 8 November 2016, London, lot 72 (sold for 8,125 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number DE-BM-22092811).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.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO SHISHI WITH LARGE BALLUnsignedJapan, Kyoto or Osaka, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Amusingly carved as two shishi, an adult and its young, with neatly incised and inked manes, fondling a large and smooth ball, the entire composition set on a shaped base. Large himotoshi underneath.LENGTH 4.6 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.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0136).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.

RANTEI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A FOX WITH TEMPLE BELLBy Hogen Rantei, signed Rantei 蘭亭Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved in openwork as a slender fox, probably an Inari fox, with neatly incised fur and long bushy tail clambering over a small mokugyo (Buddhist temple bell), which on the back is incised with the signature RANTEI within an oblong reserve. The back with a fine honey-yellow patina. The cord attachment runs through the looped handle of the bell.HEIGHT 3.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and rubbing to the sumi-stained hairwork. 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 closely related ivory netsuke of a fox with mokugyo by Rantei in the British Museum, accession number F.806, illustrated in Barker, Richard / Smith, Lawrence (1976), Netsuke: The Miniature Sculpture of Japan, no. 75.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0142).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 FOX PRIEST (HAKUZOSU) WITH BAMBOO CANEUnsignedJapan, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)The kitsune (fox) wearing a voluminous robe with neatly engraved and inked design, a cowl draped over the creature's head, the face with a sly expression, and holding a large bamboo cane over its head. The ivory bearing a fine patina. Two himotoshi through the back.HEIGHT 6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and few natural age cracks.Provenance: Belgian collection, purchased from Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 17 May 2018, lot 21 (part lot, sold for 3,500 GBP).Hakuzosu is the name of a popular kitsune character who shapeshifted into a priest in the Kyogen play Tsurigitsune (lit. 'fox catching'). Kitsune (foxes) are creatures imbued with magical powers and are known to have the ability of shapeshifting. They are also believed to be animated by the devils.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0132). 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 IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNIN ATTRIBUTED TO MASAKAZUAttributed to Masakazu, unsignedJapan, Osaka, early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Gama Sennin is shown straining under the weight of the huge toad on his back, which is arched as he tries to hold its weight, holding on to a limb with each of his hands. Finely carved details with long flowing sleeves and a very amusing facial expression of the Sennin. The toad with an expressively carved warty skin and large inlaid eyes of reddish horn. Natural himotoshi through an opening between one leg of the toad and the Sennin's arm.HEIGHT 5.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, with very minor age cracks and a good patina.Literature comparison: Compare with a signed Masakazu, in which Gama lies on top of a huge toad, in Barker and Smith, Netsuke, the Miniature Sculpture of Japan, British Museum, p. 27, no. 5.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308308/20). 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 OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNIN ON A HUGE TOADUnsignedJapan, Osaka, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)The hermit Gama seated on a large, bloated toad, its warty skin beautifully rendered with clever stippling, the toad's eyes inlaid in ebony. Gama's expression is amusingly grim, as the toad usually sits on his shoulder, now their positions are reversed. Good, deep himotoshi to the underside. The ivory bearing a fine yellowish patina. Unsigned, however likely by either Masakazu or Masatomo.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, some typical wear to the sumi-stained details, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam.Museum comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke, by Masakazu, in the collection of The British Museum, accession no. F.890.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke, by Masatomo, sold at Van Ham, Asian Art, 8 December 2016, Cologne, lot 2303 (sold for 3,612 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0043). 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.

MASAMORI: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNINBy Masamori, signed Masamori 正守Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of large and triangular section (sankaku), the hermit seated and wearing a loosely fitted robe, his distended stomach showing, and holding a three-legged toad by one trailing hindleg as it clambers on top of his head. Gama's expression is treated humorously, his face marked by a wide smile and squinting eyes inlaid with dark horn pupils. The toad's huge eyes are inlaid in dark horn as well. Large himotoshi through the back and underside, the signature stained red within an oval reserve MASAMORI. The artist belongs to the Yoshinaga school of Kyoto.HEIGHT 5.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and typical age cracks.Auction comparison:Compare to a standing Gama sennin by the same artist at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 44 (sold for 2,275 EUR). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0127).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

YOSHIMASA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF FUKUSUKEBy Yoshimasa, signed Yoshimasa 吉正 Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The lucky dwarf with the amusingly large face is depicted here standing in a dancing posture and holding a fan in his right hand. His kimono and surcoat are finely decorated in the typical manner of the Yoshi- school. The pupils are inlaid in dark horn. Good patina and himotoshi to the reverse. Signed YOSHIMASA 吉正.HEIGHT 5.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only minor wear and few age cracks.Literature comparison: Compare with models by Yoshitomo in Nigel Platt's article 'Yoshitomo and Fukusuke' in International Netsuke Society Journal, Vol. 31, no. 1, Spring 2011, p. 25.Auction comparison: Compare with a similar netsuke in the style of Yoshitomo sold by Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part I, 8 November 2016, London, lot 11 (sold for 2,125 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308321/20). 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.

ANRAKU: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF SHOKIBy Shukosai Anraku(sai), signed Anraku 安乐Japan. Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A spectacularly animated ivory netsuke of the demon queller Shoki striking a combative pose, his left arm wrapped around his right wrist, his free hand clenched into a comically large fist, and looking upwards in search of his oni nemesis. The ivory is lightly stained in an attractive yellowish color, and the details are neatly incised. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and signed on the hem of the robe ANRAKU.HEIGHT 5.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, few fine age cracks.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0033). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

ANRAKU: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF DARUMABy Shukosai Anraku(sai), signed Anraku 安乐Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Bodhidharma is shown seated almost completely enveloped in his robe, only his face is left uncovered with a humorously stern expression, as Daruma recovers from his nine-year wall gazing. The facial features are finely crafted with inlaid eyes of dark horn and minute incision work for the beard and brows. The ivory is attractively stained. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed ANRAKU.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Belgian collection, purchased from Lempertz, Cologne.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0126). 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.

ITTAN: A WOOD NETSUKE DEPICTING TANUKI NO HARA TSUZUMIBy Ittan, signed Ittan 一旦 with kakihanJapan, Nagoya, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved to depict the tanuki drumming on its huge belly, the mythical animal well detailed with neatly incised fur heightened by the skillful staining, further with a bushy tail, subtly carved spine, and large paws, the face with intelligent eyes and jovial expression. The lower back and underside with himotoshi, the flat base of the tanuki's belly signed ITTAN with a kakihan. HEIGHT 3.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, few tiny nicks, few light scratches. Provenance: German private collection. The tanuki possesses magical powers and can change forms, sometimes into Buddhist monks; they are jovial, but also dangerous, as they have been known to suffocate hunters with their enormous scrotums. The act of drumming on the belly, according to legend, was used by tanuki to beguile travelers and hunters to lead them astray. However, it has also been said that tanuki would get together just for fun, drumming on their bellies under the moonlight, perhaps even with some sake involved.Museum comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of a belly-drumming tanuki, 3.5 cm high, dated 19th century, in the Seattle Art Museum, accession number 33.414.

A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON, ATTRIBUTED TO TAMETAKAAttributed to Tametaka, unsignedJapan, Nagoya, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Powerfully and boldly carved in openwork as a fierce two-horned three-clawed dragon with coiled body, forming a tactile, compact composition, the head and one of the claws resting on top, with flaming whiskers and finely incised scales, the underside with one leg and the body forming the natural himotoshi.The netsuke is unsigned however confidently attributed to Tametaka, who is mentioned in the Soken Kisho of 1781.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical surface wear. Rich, dark patina.Auction comparison:Compare 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 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 65.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

AN EARLY AUTUMNAL WOOD NETSUKE OF A CHESTNUT WITH CHRYSANTHEMUMUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A pleasingly worn, well-sized and tactile wood netsuke depicting a chestnut with naturalistically rendered textures, the front applied with a leafy kiku flower finely carved in high relief - both symbols for autumn. Very large and generously excavated himotoshi through the back and underside.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical surface wear and traces of use. Beautiful, deep patina.

A CHARMING WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING FARMERUnsignedJapan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A charming wood netsuke of a serenely sleeping farmer lying on a straw mat and holding a scythe, his facial features sensitively crafted evoking an image of both bliss and fatigue. The details are finely carved and the underside houses the very large, asymmetrical himotoshi.LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear including some wear to the rope of the straw mat underneath.Auction comparison:Compare to a related wood netsuke of a sleeping boy, also dated 18th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 29 (sold for 1,952 EUR).

TOSHIKAZU: A NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SEATED SLEEPING SHOJOBy Toshikazu, signed Toshikazu 利一Japan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and of ideally compact netsuke shape, the shojo depicted seated with one hand resting on her knee and the other cradling her face as she sleeps off the aftereffects of copious amounts of sake. The expression is superbly rendered, retaining a hint of blissfulness while showing her tired drunkenness. The finely incised long hair flows down over the neatly detailed kimono. The lower back and underside with asymmetrical himotoshi. Signed underneath within an oblong reserve TOSHIKAZU. The cherrywood bearing a fine, dark patina.HEIGHT 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, attractively worn.Museum comparison: Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a shojo by Masatoshi, 4.4 cm long, dated c. 1800, in the Victoria & Albert Museum, accession number A.43-1919.

HIDEHARU: A NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A DRUNKEN SHOJO WITH LADLE AND SAKE SAUCERBy Hideharu, signed Hideharu 秀晴Japan, Nagoya, late 19th centuryAn amusing and well-sized wood netsuke of a drunken shojo holding a sake ladle and rather amusingly balancing a large sakazuki (sake saucer) on its head. The long hair is finely incised and the hakama shows elaborate, deeply engraved wave patterns and cross-etched designs. Signed within a sunken reserve HIDEHARU. Himotoshi to the back and underside.HEIGHT 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear and traces of use.Provenance: Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke III, 5 June 2015, Cologne, lot 1195. A noted private collection, USA, acquired from the above.Literature comparison:Compare to a reclining shojo with sake saucer, by Hideharu, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures (LNIA), Vol. 1, p. 458.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A TANBA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING PUPPYUnsignedJapan, Tanba Province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The reclining puppy with neatly incised fur and large, beady eyes inlaid in dark horn, its face with a charming, smiling expression. The underside with the somewhat stylized feet tucked under the body and with large, asymmetrical himotoshi.LENGTH 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and expected traces of use. Tiny chip to the very edge of the left forepaw.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.Auction comparison:Compare to a related wood netsuke of three puppies, by Toyokazu, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 88 (sold for 5,056 EUR).

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A PUPPYUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and deeply stained as a puppy with inlaid eyes lowering its head and biting into its left hind leg. The fur is very neatly incised and the wood bears a fine, dark patina. Natural himotoshi.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Two small chips to the edges of the feet, otherwise good condition with minor wear and traces of use.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.

KOKEI: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A PUPPY INSIDE A DUSTPANBy Kokei, signed Kokei 虎溪Japan, Kuwana, Ise Province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a chubby puppy nestled within a dustpan, the fur neatly engraved and the expression imbued with charm and character. Two asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed within a polished area KOKEI.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Very good 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.

MINKO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF TANUKI HARA NO TSUZUMIMinko lineage, signed Minko 珉江 with kakihanJapan, Tsu, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as tanuki no hara tsuzumi (belly drumming raccoon dog), the fur beautifully incised, its right foreleg raised, the other foreleg beating its distended stomach. The face with a jovial expression, baring sharp fangs, upwards turned snout, the eyes double inlaid in bone with dark pupils. Two pierced himotoshi between the sweeping, bushy tail and signed underneath within a polished reserve MINKO. Good, dark patina.HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear and some light surface scratches.The tanuki possesses magical powers and can change forms, sometimes into Buddhist monks; they are jovial, but also dangerous, as they have been known to suffocate hunters with their enormous scrotums. The act of drumming on the belly, according to legend, was used by tanuki to beguile travelers and hunters to lead them astray. However, it has also been said that tanuki would get together just for fun, drumming on their bellies under the moonlight, perhaps even with some sake involved.

TOMONOBU: A STAINED WOOD NETSUKE OF A TRAPPED OCTOPUS (TAKO TSUBO)By Arima Tomonobu, signed Tomonobu 友信Japan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Depicting an octopus emerging from a cracked pot trap, one tentacle touching its head in amusing gesture, another tentacle holding a hamaguri clam, and with two further clams and an awabi attached to the pot. The netsuke is skillfully stained in various tones and textures, as is typical for the artist. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath within a rectangular reserve to the underside of the pot TOMONOBU.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.

YASUSADA SHUZAN: A RARE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF THE SANSUKUMIBy Yasusada Shuzan, signed Shuzan 秋山Japan, Echigo province, c. 1820, Edo period (1615-1868)A remarkably well-carved and rustic ebony netsuke depicting the sansukumi, formed by the snake, toad, and snail all chasing each other, the eyes of the toad and snake gilt-ringed. Natural himotoshi under the snake's tail and signed SHUZAN - the artist Yasusada Shuzan is rarely encountered and belongs to the enigmatic Echigo group of carvers.LENGTH 4.6 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor expected wear and traces of use.Literature comparison: Compare the manner of the toad to a netsuke of Gama Sennin on a toad by Yasusada Shuzan, circa 1820, illustrated in Rutherston and Bandini, The Sheila M. Baker collection of Japanese netsuke and inro, 2011, no. 5.Auction comparison:Compare a wood netsuke of two toads, by Shuya, at Bonhams, Netsuke from the Collection of Joseph and Elena Kurstin, 16 December 2022, New York, lot 50 (sold for 4,845 USD).

MASANAO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY AND YOUNGBy a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Yamada, Ise province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a monkey biting into a persimmon, the pupils inlaid in dark horn at the corners of the eyes and the teeth inlaid in bone. A small monkey is clambering over the adult's back. The details are finely carved, and the fur is neatly engraved. Natural himotoshi and signed MASANAO within a polished reserve underneath.LENGTH 4.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only very minor surface wear.

MASANAO: A FINE WOOD MINIATURE OKIMONO OF A TOADBy a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Yamada, Ise province, late 19th centuryThe netsuke-sized okimono finely carved as a fat warty toad, the skin minutely detailed with raised bumps above the neatly stippled surface, the eyes inlaid in ebony wood. The underside shows the webbed feet and signature MASANAO.LENGTH 5 cmCondition: Good condition with minor wear. Tiny chip to one toe.Provenance: Collection Prof. Dr. Henk C. Hoogsteden, Rotterdam, purchased from Kunsthandel Klefisch, Asian Art, 12 October 2013, Cologne, lot 868.

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 signed 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.

GYOKUZAN: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO SAMURAI FIGHTING IN A HUGE ABUMI (STIRRUP)By Asahi Gyokuzan, signed Gyokuzan 玉山Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th centuryIntricately carved with two samurai inside a giant abumi (stirrup) with a finely stippled surface and decorated with a roundel enclosing a stream below a chrysanthemum. The warriors are embroiled in a vicious fight to death, one using his sword to block the other's spear (yarai), both with well-detailed armor and grim expressions. The abumi with a central himotoshi, which is encircled by chrysanthemum petals to the underside. Signed to the underside within an oblong reserve GYOKUZAN.LENGTH 4.6 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear, few fine 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.The present netsuke is the finest example this author has seen of this group.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0141).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 INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF SEIOBO WITH THE PEACH OF IMMORTALITYUnsignedJapan, c. 1800, Edo period (1615-1868)The Queen Mother of the West dressed in voluminous robes and holding a giant peach of immortality in front of her with both hands, the hands and head inlaid, the hair neatly incised and darkly stained, secured by an elaborate headdress. The back with the himotoshi.HEIGHT 8.2 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, few minuscule nicks.Literature comparison: Compare a closely related netsuke of Seiobo holding a peach, illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 411, no. 1215, where the author notes that “[a]ccording to the Soken Kisho, this method of inlaying was used by Kanjuro (Reikichi, No. 447) and Meinertzhagen suggested that the present example could have been made by him”.Compare a related inlaid wood netsuke of Seiobo holding a basket of peaches, attributed to Kanjuro, illustrated in Galerie Zacke (1985) Netsuke und Inro aus Japan, no. 35.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related netsuke of Seiobo, 8.5 cm high, dated late 18th to early 19th century, at Bonhams, 16 May 2013, London, lot 31 (sold for 1,187 GBP).

A FINE SMALL IVORY NETSUKE OF SOTOBA KOMACHIUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The poetess Ono no Komachi, once renowned for her beauty, depicted here as an old woman, her emaciated rib cage showing, clad in tattered robes, sitting on a grave post (sotoba), yet still gently smiling. Good, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot. The ivory bearing a fine, lustrous patina.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, fine age cracks. Beautiful patina.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL306335/20). 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.

SEIYODO BUNSHOJO: A SUBLIME BOAR TUSK NETSUKE WITH SPIDER AND FERNSBy Seiyodo Bunshojo (1764-1838), signed Nihon San'indo Iwami Enokawa Seiyodo Bunshojo chokoku 青陽堂 文章女 Japan, Iwami Province, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Earle, Joe (2000) The Robert S. Huthart Collection of Iwami Netsuke, Vol. 1, p. 110, no. 90. Carved from a choice, beautifully shimmering boar tusk with pronounced curvature. Towards the narrow end the artist has carved a large spider in high relief with incised hair on its thick segmented body, large fangs and inlaid eyes. The spider is carved with a superior sense of naturalism, which is extraordinarily rare for comparable Iwami tusk netsuke with spiders. Below the arachnid are delicately engraved ferns next to the signature and inscription reading SEIYODO BUNSHOJO carved this by the Eno River in the San'indo region of Japan. With a zoomorphic pot seal. LENGTH 10.8 cm Condition: Very good condition with natural veining and minor age cracks. Provenance: The Robert S. Huthart Collection.

A RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE SHUNGA OF OKAME AS SOTOBA KOMACHIUnsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An erotic satire of the popular Sotoba Komachi motif - usually depicting the famous waka poetess Ono no Komachi, once renowned for her beauty, as an old woman seated on a grave post (sotoba) begging by the roadside - with a characteristically mirthful Okame wearing long robes and a rag over her forehead, holding a cane in one hand and a phallic mushroom in the other. The netsuke is well detailed with bold incision work heightened by dark staining. The back with generously excavated, asymmetrical himotoshi.LENGTH 3.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, appealingly worn, natural imperfections.

A GOOD STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF DAIKOKUUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The god of wealth kneeling and carrying a large bale of rice on his back, his face marked with a smile and framed by pendulous earlobes. The antler bearing a fine patina, plugged to the bottom and top. Two himotoshi underneath the rice bale.HEIGHT 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition with old, typical wear.Literature comparison:Compare to a closely related stag antler netsuke of Daikoku illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art (1996) Netsuke from the Teddy Hahn Collection, London, no. 8.

A CHARMING STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A HAREUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The rabbit (usagi) seated with its paws pushed afore, the long ears laid back for compactness, the eyes inlaid in reddish horn, its head raised curiously. The underside with two generously excavated himotoshi. The material bearing a beautiful, warm caramel color.LENGTH 3.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and natural flaws to the material.

KANSAI: A RARE LACQUERED AND METAL-INLAID STAG ANTLER MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING HO-O AND KIRIBy a member of the Koma Kansai lineage, signed Kansai 寛哉Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part manju netsuke carved from antler or bone and inlaid to the front with a ho-o (phoenix) flying above a kiri (paulownia) blossom with leaves, both inlaid in shibuichi, and surrounded by gold-lacquered takamaki-e vines. The back with a central himotoshi, the cord attachment within, and signed KANSAI.DIAMETER 3.4 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear to lacquer, some 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.Both the ho-o bird and the paulownia (kiri) tree are imperial symbols of Japan. According to legend, the ho-o, a bird similar to the phoenix that represents the eternal rebirth of the soul, only settles on the kiri tree. In the hope of attracting this auspicious bird that blesses people with wisdom, health, and happiness, the trees are planted in courtyards and gardens.

A FINE WALRUS IVORY RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH DRAGONUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa District, second half of 19th centuryPublished: Henri L. Joly, W. L Behrens Collection (1912/1966), no. 1523.Masterfully hollowed out and carved in openwork with a depiction of a central coiled dragon, in Chinese style, surrounded by clouds and bands with an archaistic key-fret design. The reverse with central floral himotoshi and with further pierced petals, effectively creating a double flower. The sides completely carved in openwork with a wavy concentric band.DIAMETER 4.1 cm, THICKNESS 2 cmCondition: Very good condition.Provenance: Walter L. Behrens collection, no. 1523.

A WALRUS TUSK RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE DEPICTING A BAT AND GOURDSUnsigned Japan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryOf oval form, finely carved in openwork to one side with a stylized bat with a cat-like face, curled tail, and wings in the form of stippled leaves with raised veins and scrolling stems, all flanked by two gourds, this side of the ryusa manju incised with checkerboard patterns, the back with further gourds and leaves detailed with worm-eaten holes as well as the central himotoshi.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear, natural imperfections.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 related carved walrus tusk ryusa manju netsuke with a bat, 3.8 cm, dated 19th century, in the Toledo Museum of Art, object number 1950.91A.

TENMIN: A KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE DEPICTING A NIO PULLING A GRIMACEBy Asama Tenmin, signed Tenmin 天民Japan, Tokyo, late 19th centuryThe solid shibuichi plate fitted into a lustrously polished ivory bowl, the disc worked in takazogan with highlights of gold, silver and suaka, depicting a muscular nio temple guardian pulling an amusing grimace. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment to the back of the plate.DIAMETER 4.5 cmCondition: Some fine age cracks to the bowl, otherwise in excellent condition with minor expected wear.Provenance: Belgian collection, purchased from Lempertz, Cologne.Auction comparison:Compare to a related kagamibuta netsuke by Tenmin, depicting a pensive rakan, at Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries - Japanese Art, 1 September 2022, Vienna, lot 184 (sold for 1,896 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 23-B-0124). 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 KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE OF A SHOJO ON MINOGAMEUnsignedJapan, late 19th centuryThe shibuichi disc fitted into a neatly polished, tapered ivory bowl, the front decorated in takazogan with gold and suaka highlights, depicting a miongame holding a hishaku sake ladle and riding a minogame. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment to the back of the plate.DIAMETER 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor wear and traces of use to the ivory bowl.Provenance: Collection Prof. Henk Hoogsteden, Rotterdam.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL310833/20). 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 RARE BRONZE NETSUKE OF A MONKEY WITH GOURDUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryA heavily cast miniature bronze netsuke, worked with fine incision work, depicting a monkey (saru) kneeling over a gourd and picking apart its flesh. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 3.3 cmWEIGHT 61 gCondition: Good condition, minor wear, casting irregularities, some green verdigris from oxidation.

A NEGORO LACQUER NETSUKE OF DARUMAUnsignedJapan, Meiji period (1868-1912)Bodhidharma is shown seated meditatively, completely enveloped in his robe, the robe covered in stunning negoro lacquer. The red lacquer is highly contrasting to Daruma's black-lacquered body. Himotoshi through the underside.HEIGHT 3 cmCondition: Good condition, minor expected wear to lacquer, a crack to the top of the netsuke and a loss to the left knee.Provenance: German private collection. Old accession no. '748. 9801' to the underside.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related lacquer netsuke of Daruma at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 43 (sold for 1,643 EUR).

A CHARMING GOLD LACQUER NETSUKE OF A DOG WITH DRUMUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryA charming netsuke, depicting a gold-lacquered piebald dog with roiro spots, wearing a red-lacquered collar, both paws placed on a large taiko drum, lacquered in gold, black and dense orange nashiji. The dog's expression is amusingly crafted, its red-lacquered tongue extended. Two himotoshi underneath.LENGTH 3.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor typical wear to lacquer.

A RARE RHINOCEROS HORN NETSUKE OF A GOJO BRIDGE POSTUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The horn of caramel tone with beautiful parallel striations varying in color and intensity, the surface finely polished to highlight the natural material. Depicted is a traditional bridge post, most likely from the Gojo bridge in Kyoto. Two himotoshi underneath. Both the material and subject matter are very rare in netsuke art.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition, only very minor wear.Provenance: Family collection of either Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) or his son-in-law Louis (Loek) Borensztajn (1935-2021), Netherlands. Felix Tikotin (1893-1986) was an architect, art collector, dealer, and founder of the first Museum of Japanese Art in the Middle East. He became one of the world's leading collectors of Japanese art, starting at the age of 18, and continued to collect and work as an art dealer in Berlin in the 1920s. In the 1930s Felix Tikotin fled from the Nazis and hid his collection in the Netherlands. After the war, he decided that his collection should be taken to Israel, where in 1959 and with the help of Abba Hushi, who was the mayor of Haifa, The Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art was established. The Museum's collection comprises more than 8,000 items of art and crafts.

A CORAL NETSUKE OF HOTEIUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryFinely carved with Hotei leaning against his huge treasure bag, a large scroll poking out, the lucky god with a content expression marked by narrowed eyes and smiling lips, flanked by large thick earlobes, wearing a long robe and showing off his rotund belly, the back with small himotoshi.LENGTH 5.1 cm Condition: Very good condition with natural imperfections.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related coral netsuke of Daikoku and Ebisu, by the same carver/workshop, 4 cm high, dated 19th century, at Lempertz, 6 December 2014, Cologne, lot 866 (sold for 1,612 EUR).

UNSHOKEN: A KUROGAKI NETSUKE DEPICTING HOTEI AND TWO BOYSBy Unshoken, signed Unshoken 雲生軒 with sealJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The black persimmon wood well carved to depict a cheerfully smiling Hotei seated on his huge sack as two small boys are engaged in a game kubihiki with Hotei's tasseled prayer beads, both gleefully laughing. Hotei and the boys' lips are detailed with red pigments. The sack with very large and asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and underside, the underside further with the incised and red-stained signature UNSHOKEN with a seal.WIDTH 4.4 cmCondition: Good condition with some wear, minuscule nicks, light surface scratches.Although the artist Unshoken appears to be unrecorded, Frederick Meinertzhagen notes an artist named Unshodo, dated “Early period”, who used kurogaki (black persimmon) wood and made “Tobutsu”. See Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 968.

A SAISHIKI (PAINTED WOOD) NETSUKE OF THE SAMBIKI SARU (THREE WISE MONKEYS)Unsigned Japan, 19th centuryA compact and finely carved netsuke of the sambiki saru, also referred to as the three wise monkeys. The three primates are huddled together, each seated with crossed legs and each covering their own mouth, ears, or eyes. The details are well rendered and the netsuke is skillfully painted and attractively worn. The cord channel is drilled vertically through the center, the himotoshi to the base with an elaborate, partly gilt, mixed-metal chrysanthemum-form fitting akin to a tehen kanamono.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Good condition with typical wear, few small chips.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.

A RARE UMIMATSU NETSUKE OF THREE MONKEYS INSIDE A TREEUnsignedJapan, 18th-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved from a choice section of umimatsu (sea pine) with beautiful marbling and reddish inclusions, depicting a hollowed tree trunk, two monkeys visible in an opening to the front, one facing to the side and eating a fruit, the other larger monkey looking out, the eyes painted with gold lacquer. A further monkey is visible from the back inside an opening to the side. Generously hollowed himotoshi to the back.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition with typical crackling to the material.Auction comparison:Compare to a related umimatsu netsuke of monkeys on a tree trunk, sold at Bonhams, The Robert S. Huthart Collection of Netsuke Part II, 6 November 2019, London, lot 146 (sold for 1,211 GBP).

AN UNUSUAL PAULOWNIA (KIRI) WOOD NETSUKE OF A TOAD ON ROOF TILEUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The fat, warty toad seated on a roof tile, its webbed feet neatly detailed and splayed, the body in an alert position, the textured skin neatly detailed, and eyes inlaid in pale translucent horn with dark pupils. Large himotoshi through the underside.LENGTH 3 cmCondition: Excellent condition with typical wear.

A RARE NUT NETSUKE OF FIVE FROGS ON A LOTUS LEAF, ATTRIBUTED TO SEIMINAttributed to Seimin, unsignedJapan, Iwashiro province, second half of 19th centuryWell carved from a nut, most likely corozo, in openwork with five frogs seated in a circle on the edges of a lotus leaf and holding up a further furled lotus leaf between them, the underside carved with fine veins in relief and a broad stalk forming the himotoshi.LENGTH 3.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor natural flaws to the material and few traces of use.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.

MASAHIDE: A FINE KURUMI (WALNUT) NETSUKE DEPICTING LOTUSBy Sakiyo Kurokawa Masahide, signed Masahide 正英Japan, Nagasaki, mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The walnut superbly carved with many lotus leaves and some flowers and buds. The seam of walnut is masterfully worked with furled lotus leaves. Two irregularly shaped himotoshi and signed MASAHIDE.Sakiyo Kurokawa Masahide, active during the mid-18th century, excelled in the carving of nuts. His skill in carving kurumi netsuke is arguably unsurpassed.LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and natural flaws to the material.Literature comparison:A closely related kurumi netsuke of a flower basket is illustrated in Davey, Neil K. (1974) Netsuke: A comprehensive study based on the M.T. Hindson Collection, p. 295, no. 898.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related Kurumi netsuke of a flower basket, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 284 (sold for 3,286 EUR).

A KURUMI (WALNUT) NETSUKE OF RAKAN HANDAKA SONJAJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a seated rakan Handaka Sonja surrounded by a halo and conjuring a dragon from an alms bowl, the celestial being writhing around the composition with finely carved scales and fierce expression. Two himotoshi to the underside.HEIGHT 2.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with typical wear and natural flaws to the material as are to be expected from kurumi netsuke.Auction comparison:A closely related kurumi netsuke by Kozan depicting rakan Handaka Sonja and dragon, signed Kozan, was sold at Lempertz, The Papp Collection of Netsuke, 16 June 2018, Cologne, lot 1041 (sold for 3,472 EUR).

HIDARI ISSAN: A KURUMI (WALNUT) NETSUKE OF A ROLY POLY DARUMABy Hidari Issan, signed Hidari Issan 左一山Japan, Iwashiro Province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A fine and humorous kurumi (walnut) netsuke depicting a Daruma doll completely enveloped in its robe, only the well-carved face is visible, as he looks upwards, his eyes inlaid in dark horn with metal surrounds. Two himotoshi to the back, one florally rimmed, and signed within a recessed oval reserve HIDARI ISSAN.HEIGHT 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear and natural flaws to the material.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related kurumi netsuke of Daruma, unsigned and attributed to Hidari Issan, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 300 (sold for 1,830 EUR).

IKKOKUSAI: A RARE TAKAMORIE LACQUERED WOOD NETSUKE OF A WASP AND LOTUSBy Ikkokusai, signed Ikkokusai 一谷齋Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved as a furled lotus leaf with a large lotus pod with movable seeds, a takamori-e lacquered wasp emerging from an opening between the two folds of the large leaf. The surface is covered in translucent lacquer and is lightly drawn with lacquered veins. Natural himotoshi and signed in lacquer to the back of the leaf IKKOKUSAI.LENGTH 5.3 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor surface wear.Kinjo Ikkokusai III perfected the takamori-e design technique and won an award for excellence at the Kyoto Exhibition in Meiji 9 (1876). His reputation for work in this technique grew and at least 14 items were produced by him for the Meiji emperor. His son Kinoshita Chisai did not succeed his father's name, which went instead to his younger brother, who became Ikkokusai IV. The current generation practicing this rare technique, Kinjo Ikkokusai VII, was designated as a Hiroshima Prefectural Intangible Cultural Property Holder in “Ikkokusai Takamorie” techniques in 2011.

IKUMI: A FINE CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF A TANUKI WITH NAMAZUBy Ikumi, signed Ikumi 郁美with kakihanJapan, 20th centuryFinely carved as a tanuki with neatly incised fur and large bushy tail, one paw raised to which a cord is attached and wrapped around the tail of a namazu (catfish), all eyes are inlaid in pale translucent horn. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi through the back and signed IKUMI with kakihan:HEIGHT 6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear.Saito Ikumi is a female netsuke-shi who studied under Saito Bishu (born 1943).

VADYM PYVOVAR: AN EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A HARE AFTER TOYOMASABy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2023Well carved seated on its haunches, looking up with an alert expression, its long ears pressed back and its legs drawn in for compactness, the fur finely incised, the right front and hind legs forming the himotoshi, the eyes inlaid with black coral, the right haunch with a rectangular reserve signed with the artist's initials. LENGTH 3.9 cm Condition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison: Compare an example by Toyomasa which inspired this model at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from the Adrienne Barbanson Collection, 13 May 2013, London, lot 8 (sold for 43,250 GBP).

VADYM PYVOVAR: A WOOD NETSUKE OF THE FUKURA SUZUMEBy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2023The fat sparrow of classic form, with short stubby wings and short erect tail, the head sensitively carved with a short beak and puffy cheeks, the eyes inlaid in black coral. The underside with two asymmetrical himotoshi and the artist's incised initials within a rectangular reserve.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Fukura suzume literally means 'puffed-up sparrow'. Its meaning as a symbol of happiness is based on the homonym fuku, which means both happiness and swelling. The invention of this type of netsuke probably goes back to Masanao from Kyôto. In the second half of the 18th century, he created such sparrows with funny heads, short, spread wings and raised tail feathers "as in the courtship display" (Brockhaus 1925, p. 440) both in ivory and boxwood.

ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SPARROW ON A GOURDBy Alexander Derkachenko, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2023Finely carved as a sparrow with horn-inlaid eyes and well-detailed wings and feathers perched on a gourd which has a tasseled rope tied around it, the rope further suspending an ancient Chinese cash coin, a tiny movable worm inlaid with mammoth tusk peeking out of the gourd. Large himotoshi underneath and signed with the artist's mark.HEIGHT 4.6 cmCondition: Excellent condition.With an original mahogany storage box signed by the artist.The sparrow is a symbol of happiness while the gourd symbolizes longevity, good fortune, and abundance of all blessings.

ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH A BEAN-PODBy Alexander Derkachenko, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2023Finely carved as a rat seated on its haunches, its mammoth tusk-inlaid teeth dug into the bean-pod held with both front paws, one bean inlaid with mammoth tusk is visible on the underside, the animal well detailed with neatly incised fur, large funnel-shaped ears, long curled tail, and horn-inlaid eyes. Natural himotoshi between the feet, tail, and body. The base of the tail with a rectangular reserve signed with the artist's signature. LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.With an original mahogany storage box signed by the artist.

A HIGHLY UNUSUAL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHAPESHIFTERUnsigned Japan, late 19th to early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Powerfully carved as a malevolent being in a treacherous disguise, appearing as a ronin wearing a short robe, holding a sheathed katana in his left hand and a headscarf in his right, his demonic form betrayed only by his three-clawed feet and the vengeful expression. The robe opening at the chest to reveal an emaciated rib cage and decorated with a neatly incised hem and a lozenge symbol at the back. His face with thick furrowed brows, intense eyes, a broad nose, and buck teeth. The back with large asymmetrical himotoshi.HEIGHT 7.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Auction comparison:The style of the carving is somewhat reminiscent of Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936) of Osaka. For a mask netsuke of a ghoul by Sansho, compare particularly the facial features to the present carving, see Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 244.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.

A FINE SANSHO-STYLE WOOD NETSUKE OF A GHOULUnsignedJapan, late 19th to early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Carved as the mask of grotesque ghoulish creature with curling bushy brows, an amusingly contorted mouth with fangs at the corners, and small eyes and nose. When turned upside down the mask reveals a further bearded face as well as a horned goat-like creature. A central bar with a pierced himotoshi to the back. The details are very finely rendered in the style of Kokeisai Sansho (1871-1936) of Osaka.HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: German private collection. Remnants of an old label pasted to the back.