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AKIHIDE: A FINE CONTEMPORARY INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA TRAPPING A NAMAZUBy Akira Kawahara (Akihide, born 1934), signed Akihide 明秀Japan, Tokyo, c. 1980The kappa hunching over a straw basket, one eye and one whisker of a namazu visible through a tear near the bottom and the rest of the earthquake fish visible below. The details, such as the kappa's warty skin and long hair, are finely carved. The subject is a clever mitate on the Shoki and oni theme, where the oni traps Shoki underneath a basket, however here the kappa and namazu are depicted, who tend to play a similar cat and mouse game. The kappa's carapace is neatly inlaid with highly polished, stained tortoiseshell, and the eyes of both are double inlaid in amber with dark pupils. Natural himotoshi and signed AKIHIDE within a slightly raised, rectangular reserve underneath.LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Purchased from Michael Bernstein, New York.Akihide (actual name Akira Kawahara) was born 1934 in Tokyo. He learned carving as a teenager from his uncle who was an okimono carver. He is versatile in any material and has received high acclaim for his inlay work using highly-polished tortoiseshell. Literature comparison:Two closely related wood netsuke of kappa by Akihide are illustrated in Kinsey Miriam, Carver's Workshops at the INCS Convention III, International Netsuke Collectors Society Journal (INCSJ), vol.7, no. 4, p. 49, nos. 14 & 17.Museum comparison:A closely related wood netsuke of a kappa with child by Akihide is in the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, accession no. 2007.016.038.This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A FINE SOLID GOLD OJIME OF A TEMPLE BELL WITH DRAGONUnsignedJapan, late 19th centuryMasterfully worked, of domed shape, the temple bell surmounted by a double-dragon handle, a sinuous, fierce dragon writhing around it, the scales, flames, and whiskers very finely engraved.HEIGHT 2 cmWEIGHT 6.83 gCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: British private collection.Auction comparison:Compare a related solid gold ojime of Daruma, unsigned, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 315 (sold for 10,112 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

YOSHIMASA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEIBy Yoshimasa, signed Yoshimasa 吉正Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of large triangular section, Hotei seated, his right arm resting on his treasure bag and holding an uchiwa (fan), the left hand on his knee, dressed in a loose robe revealing his potbelly, the robe engraved with details of clouds and formalized waves. His face with a joyful expression framed by pendulous earlobes, the eyes inlaid in dark buffalo horn. Large himotoshi through the base and back, signed YOSHIMASA in a rectangular reserve.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks. Fine, honey-yellow patina.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of Hotei by Yoshitomo, at Christie's, An Important European Collection of Netsuke, 14 November 2001, London, lot 68 (sold for 10,575 GBP). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308335/20).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.

TOMOCHIKA: A SUPERB AND RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SPARROW DANCER (SUZUME ODORI)By Chikuyosai Tomochika I, signed Tomochika 友親Japan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The sparrow dancer raising his left foot dynamically, touching his ankle with his left hand, balled into a fist, the right hand touching his kasa hat. His expression is carved extremely well, and the folds of his robe match the movement of the composition perfectly. Appropriate himotoshi to the back, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot and signed in boldly incised characters TOMOCHIKA – the work is clearly that of Chikuyosai Tomochika I, founder of the Tomochika school of carvers. The wood bearing a fine, dark patina.HEIGHT 9.5 cmCondition: Very good condition, tiny chip to the back of the hat. Some minor expected surface wear, beautiful patina.Provenance: Formerly the property of the Strong Museum, donated by Margaret Woodbury Strong (1897-1969), a prolific collector and founder and namesake of the museum. With accession no 'MWSM 74.506' lacquered to the side.Literature comparison:There appears to be only one other netsuke recorded of this subject by Tomochika I, formerly in the Seymour Trower collection, illustrated in Joly, H. L. (1966) Catalogue of the H. Seymour Trower Collection of Japanese Art, pl. IV., no. 74, and in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 886.

SORYUSAI: A FINE GOLD LACQUER FIVE-CASE INRO DEPICTING JUROJIN AND MINOGAME, WITH EN SUITE NETSUKEBy Soryusai, signed Soryusai 素立斎 with seal Shiryu 史竜Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The five-case inro of upright form and lenticular profile, the black-lacquered ground densely sprinkled with tiny gold flakes creating an attractive greenish surface, lacquered in gold, silver, and red takamaki and hiramaki-e to one side with Jurojin dressed in his characteristic robe with cowl and holding a scroll, inscribed in gold lacquer above 雪舟 圖Sesshu zu [based on the original painting by Sesshu]. The reverse with the lucky god's familiar minogame, its young clambering over its back, inscribed in gold lacquer above 嵩谷画Sukoku ga [based on the original painting by Sukoku]. The interior cases of gold nashiji with fundame rims, the underside signed in gold takamaki-e characters SORYUSAI with square seal Shiryu. With a spherical malachite ojime and en suite carved wood netsuke depicting Jurojin enveloped in his robe, the underside signed RYUGYOKU with seal Ryu.HEIGHT 8.7 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cm, HEIGHT (netsuke) 4.5 cmCondition: Very good condition. Minor wear and rubbing to lacquer expected, few tiny chips to the edge of the cases.Provenance: Ex-collection Helen & Jack Mang.The artist Soryusai is listed in Wrangham's Inro Index, Earle, Joe [ed.] (1995) The Index of Inro Artists, p. 273.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A COCKEREL ON AWABIUnsignedJapan, second half of 19th centuryFinely carved, the rooster standing on top of an awabi shell – a quite unusual subject pairing. The proud cockerel turns its head slightly to the left, the eyes inlaid in dark horn, and the plumage and long tail feathers very finely incised. Natural himotoshi. The well-toned wood bearing a fine patina.HEIGHT 4.6 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: German private collection.

HOGYOKU: A RARE MARINE TOOTH NETSUKE OF A SARUMAWASHI WITH TWO MONKEYSBy Hogyoku, signed Hogyoku 宝玉Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a sarumawashi (monkey trainer) standing and handing a fruit to one monkey, another monkey finishing its snack visible in the back. The sarumawashi with a gentle smile, wearing a well-carved voluminous robe, holding a small drum, and with a tobacco pouch tied to his waist. The back with two himotoshi and signed HOGYOKU.HEIGHT 5.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.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.

IKKAN: A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT HORSEBy Ikkan (1817-1893), signed Ikkan 一貫Japan, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a recumbent horse (uma), the animal sensitively crafted and rearing its head back over its left shoulder, the mane neatly incised and falling in tresses over its neck. The underside is equally well-carved, showing the legs neatly tucked in for compactness. Signed IKKAN in a polished reserve on the underside. The 'natural' himotoshi runs through the horse's left front and hindleg.LENGTH 3.9 cm, HEIGHT 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: British private collection.Auction comparison:A closely related, yet smaller, wood netsuke of a recumbent horse by Ikkan, formerly in the Larry Caplan collection, was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 107 (sold for 3,286 EUR).

TACHIBANA FUMISHIGE: A FINE GOLD LACQUER FOUR-CASE INRO WITH EN SUITE NETSUKE BY SHORINBy Tachibana Fumishige, signed Tachibana Fumishige saku 橘文重作Japan, c. 1850, Edo period (1615-1868)The four-case inro bearing a superb gold kinji ground and lacquered in brown, silver, and gold takamaki-e to the front with an ox, the hairwork beautifully detailed. The reverse with a Buddhist mantra lacquered in gold takamaki-e:“The happiness of longevity and peace of mindI will be saved from sickness and granted prolonged lifeWe are blessed with a great rewardAll people love and respect each otherThe seven treasures are given to the people who come here”The interior cases of nashiji with gold fundame rims and signed underneath TACHIBANA FUMISHIGE saku [made by Tachibana Fumishige]. With a gold and copper ojime formed as a leafy gourd and a fine 18th-century ebony wood netsuke depicting a recumbent ox, the horns and ears of silver, and the eyes double inlaid in buffalo horn. The underside of the netsuke with large and generously excavated himotoshi and the signature SHORIN.HEIGHT 8 cm (inro), LENGTH (netsuke) 5.2 cmCondition: The inro in excellent condition with hardly any wear. The netsuke with some old restorations.Provenance: Formerly the property of the Strong Museum, donated by Margaret Woodbury Strong (1897-1969), a prolific collector and founder and namesake of the museum. The interior of the bottom case with accession no. '75.1966'.The surname Tachibana 橘 literally means Tachibana trees (citrus nobilis). There are several lacquer artists who used the Tachibana family name such as Tachibana Gyokuzan. However, this lacquer artist Tachibana Fumishige is rare, and it is not clear whether he was related to Tachibana Gyokuzan. In the Kinsei Makieshi Meikan compilation, reproduced in the Rokusho Magazine, volume 24, Takao Yo notes that an extant work (sake cup) belongs to the Ii family of the Hikone fief and is now at the Hikone Castle Museum; the date Tenpo 14 (1843) inscribed on the cup. The Ii family crest happens to be a Tachibana tree.

SHIBATA REISAI: A SUPERB AND RARE FOUR-CASE LACQUER INROBy Shibata Reisai (1850-1915), signed Shibata Reisai 柴田令哉Japan, late 19th- early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Published: Klefisch, Trudel (1984) The Champoud Collection Inro, illustrated on pl. 283.Grace Tsumugi, London, November 2002, no. 24.Sydney Moss Ltd. (2014) Lac, Lacquer, Lacquest, pp. 304-305, no. 119.The four-case inro of upright rectangular form and oval section, bearing an elegant roiro ground, the front decorated with a resting boy shown from behind, wearing a lavishly decorated gold-lacquered robe embellished with inlays of iridescent aogai (mother-of-pearl). An inlaid aogai and metal-enriched lacquer sickle is placed into his red-lacquered obi. The boy is seated on a 'cloud' of nashiji grasses with sparsely inlaid kirigane flakes, above him some grasses and flowers are visible which extend to the other side, revealing a huge Rimpa-style pewter-lacquered basket filled with various flowers worked in gold takamaki-e with inlays of pottery, aogai and kirigane. The underside signed in gold maki-e characters SHIBATA REISAI. The interior cases of nashiji with gold fundame rims. With a carved black lacquer ojime.A remarkably elegant and delicate artwork from a considerably rare artist.HEIGHT 8.1 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only very minimal surface wear.Provenance: Ex-collection Maurice Champoud (1898-1981). Ex-collection Idemitsu Bijutsukan, Tokyo. With Grace Tsumugi Ltd, ex-collection Shep Brozman, New York, acquired from the above. Then with Syndey Moss Ltd., London. US private collection, acquired from the above.According to Edward Wrangham, “[Reisai] worked as one of his father's [Shibata Zeshin] many pupils, lacquering both inro and netsuke. Zeshin himself used the name Reisai as a go until he was twenty-six, which has caused some confusion. However Zeshin used this go in seal form, on paintings and prints; Reisai signed with his name written in script on his lacquer wares. Moreover Reisai's works have a style of their own: they are often smallish […] and decorated with a Rimpa design.” (Earle, Joe [ed.], 1995, The Index of Inro Artists, p. 252).

NAITO TOYOMASA: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TENGU (TENGU NO TOMAGO)By Naito Toyomasa (1773-1856), signed Toyomasa 豊昌Japan, Sasayama, Tanba province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Emerging from its egg, the left wing already spread over the outside of the shell, and the beak slightly opened with a tormented expression. The glaring eyes are inlaid in pale, translucent horn. The plumage and hair are carved with precision and the wood is darkened and accentuated in some areas, typical for the artist. Large, generously excavated himotoshi through the egg near the boldly incised signature TOYOMASA.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, the lightly stained wood with minor areas of discoloration.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison:A closely related, yet less fine, wood netsuke of a hatching tengu by Toyomasa was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, Vienna, lot 245 (sold for 10,512 EUR).

A CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF A MYTHICAL BEASTUnsignedJapan, 20th centuryThe kirin-like creature standing with its arms touching its bent knees, the long neck curling and head nestled into the shoulders, the eyes inlaid in dark horn. A little bump on the forehead indicates a growing horn and the neatly carved mane rests against the creature's back. The long tail curls down the back, forming the natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 9.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.The design is illustrated in the Soken Kisho of 1781, the first publication on netsuke and their carvers, where it is described as a to-bori - literally an 'eastern carving', suggesting its exotic or foreign nature.Literature comparison:A closely related wood netsuke by Ouchi Sosui depicting the same subject is illustrated in Sagemonya (1998) So School Netsuke, no. 74. Another closely related wood netsuke, signed Masahide and dated to the 19th century, depicting the same subject is illustrated in Rutherston & Bandini, Japanese Netsuke, Inro and Works of Art.

MASAMITSU: A FINE AND LARGE MIXED METAL KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE OF A NIO GUARDIANBy Kikugawa Masamitsu, signed Masamitsu 正光Japan, late 19th centuryAn artfully and semi-sculpturally executed Nio, one of the two “Benevolent Kings”, the gigantic, muscular guardians of the Buddha standing at the entrance of the temples. This Nio shows a grim expression and has a markedly athletic appearance. He is holding a kongo (vajra) in one hand and is draped in flowing celestial scarves. The figure in copper, the loincloth in shakudo and gold and the eyes inlaid in gold as well. The background is chased. Signed MASAMITSU on a small plate, for the artist from the Kikugawa family – a famous family of metalwork artists.DIAMETER 5 cmCondition: The bowl with minor surface scratches and a small crack, otherwise excellent conditionProvenance: Czech private collection, purchased at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, lot 284.

AN UNUSUAL AND LARGE EBONY NETSUKE WITH LOTUS AND PAULOWNIA MONUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The large netsuke of a bell-shaped lotus leaf, decorated with a paulownia crest (kiri mon) to one side, inlaid with six metal studs, and flanked by a lotus bud and furled leaf. The reverse with two large, generously excavated himotoshi and the curling stem.HEIGHT 7.1 cmCondition: Good condition, some wear, light surface scratches.Provenance: Formerly the property of the Strong Museum, donated by Margaret Woodbury Strong (1897-1969), a prolific collector and founder and namesake of the museum. Accession number 78.1697 to the back. This rather peculiar netsuke features an unusual variation of the paulownia (kiri) mon, borne on a bell-shaped lotus leaf and featuring a row of 5-5-5 flowers on top. In comparison, the Government Seal of Japan features 5-7-5 flowers. Around 140 variations of the kiri mon exist. Originally, the paulownia seal was the private symbol of the Japanese Imperial Family, from as early as the sixteenth century. The Toyotomi clan, led by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, later adopted the paulownia seal for use as the crest of his clan. After the Meiji Restoration, the seal was eventually adopted as the emblem of the Japanese government.

A GOOD IVORY NETSUKE OF A STREET VENDORUnsigned Japan, c. 1790, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Sydney L. Moss (2010) They are all fire and every one doth shine. The Elly Nordskog Collection of Japanese Inro, Pipecases and Netsuke, London, pp. 408-409, no. 143.Superbly carved in a spirited and animated manner that is uncommon for the sankaku-type netsuke, possessing a good depth and plasticity, depicting a merchant or peddler turning in mid-step as he walks, his left hand obscured by his loose-fitting robe with neatly incised folds, holding a bunch of dried fruits with his right, carrying a straw bundle with a flowering prunus branch attached over his shoulder, his finely rendered face with a cheerful expression marked by a wide smile and upturned eyes, one himotoshi to the back, the other ingeniously carved through the robe beside the man's crossed legs.HEIGHT 7.1 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor surface wear, traces of use, expected age cracks. Fine, cream-colored patina to the back.Provenance: Ex-collection Elinor “Elly” Nordskog (1919-2013).This charming depiction, full of action and character, is one which derives from a fairly prolific and so far anonymous artist – or more likely workshop – in the late eighteenth century. The milky-white ivory and the concern with surface and line indicate they were based in or close to Osaka, and their figures are of medium rather than outsize scale and always smile. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0254).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 THE OIL THIEF, ATTRIBUTED TO MASAYOSHIUnsignedJapan, Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Well carved as the oil thief Abura Bozu standing and leaning forward as he holds his broken geta in one hand, trying to mend it, his eyes inlaid in dark horn. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:A closely related netsuke by Masayoshi, described as a “happy man putting on his geta”, is illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 743.Auction comparison:Compare a near-identical wood netsuke of Masayoshi, 19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, lot 93 (sold for 2,528 EUR).

KOSAI: A LACQUERED HAKO NETSUKE WITH SOUTH SEA ISLANDERBy Kosai, signed Kosai 幸齋 ustusu 冩Japan, 19th centuryThe two-part hako (box) with overhanging lobed cover lacquered in black with some gold accents, purposely rubbed, the front lacquered in low relief takamaki-e with a south sea islander viewed from behind and holding a gigantic branch of inlaid coral in one hand. The front with an inscription Buncho hitsu [The brush/design of Buncho (Tani Buncho 1763-1841)], and the back with the signature Kosai utsusu [copied/painted by Kosai]. Central himotoshi to the underside, the looped metal cord attachment within.LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear. Most of the wear is simulated to emulate the stroke of a paintbrush.Provenance: British collection.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

A RARE STAG ANTLER OBI-HASAMI NETSUKE WITH REISHI FUNGUS AND BATSUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa District, late 19th centuryFinely carved and stained as the doubled stemmed immortality mushroom, its head carved with a bat in high relief. The combination of bat and reishi is a popular motif, originally coming from China, symbolizing longevity. Two himotoshi through the head.LENGTH 11.1 cmCondition: Excellent condition, fine natural age cracks.Provenance: European collection.Used in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, the reishi fungus (in Chinese lingzhi) motif is valued in both China and Japan for its aesthetic qualities as an ornament.Literature comparison:Compare a related stag-antler obi-hasami netsuke of lotus leaves by Masayuki, circa 1860-1880, illustrated in Moss, Sydney L. (2016) Kokusai The Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. III, p. 122-123, no. 407.

TADATOSHI: A SUPERB NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SEATED SLEEPING SHOJOBy Tadatoshi, signed Tadatoshi 忠利Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Very finely carved and of ideally compact netsuke shape, the shojo depicted seated with one hand resting on its lap and the other cradling its face as it sleeps off the effects of too much sake. The expression is carved masterfully, retaining a hint of blissfulness while showing her tired drunkenness, the right cheek morphs slightly from the extended contact with the hand. The neatly incised long hair flows down over the beautifully detailed kimono. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and underneath, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot. Signed underneath within a recessed reserve in ukibori characters TADATOSHI. The cherrywood bearing a fine, dark patina.HEIGHT 3.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.Provenance: European collection.Tadatoshi and his followers carved many shojo depicted in various attitudes, though usually reclining. The variant of the shojo sleeping while seated is to be considered rarer than the reclining one.Auction comparison:A related wood netsuke of a sleeping reclining shojo, by Tadatoshi, was sold at Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke III, 5 June 2015, Cologne, lot 1064 (sold for 8,556 EUR).

A RARE BAMBOO NETSUKE OF A MOKUGYO YOKAIUnsignedJapan, 20th centuryFinely carved as the tsukumogami (animate household object) of a mokugyo temple bell with a large, curved handle and swirling curls underneath, the front formed as a monster head with floppy ears, furrowed brows and broad nose. The hollowed bell makes the appropriate sound when struck. Natural himotoshi through the handle.HEIGHT 5.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.This netsuke is likely inspired by the Tsukumogami Emaki, (Illustrated Scroll of Animated Utensils, 16th century) which features as its protagonists a band of used utensils that have turned into monsters (yokai). This work belongs to a genre of such tales composed between the 14th and 16th centuries, known as otogi-zoshi, or Muromachi tales. The Tsukumogami Emaki also inspired the famous Night Parade of One Hundred Demons by Kawanabe Kyosai.Tsukumogami are animate household objects. After a service life of nearly one hundred years, utsuwamono or kibutsu (containers, tools, and instruments) receive souls (kami).

HOGEN: A RARE WOOD MASK NETSUKESigned Hogen 法元Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The expressively carved mask depicts a screaming lion head, identifiable by the characteristic nose with large flaring nostrils. The mouth is grotesquely wide open, the creature has large ears and eyes which are lacquered in silver with black-lacquer pupils. The reverse with large himotoshi through a central bridge which houses the finely cut signature HOGEN – more likely referring to the honorary title rather than a carver's name. The wood of a good color and with a fine hand patina.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: European collection P. Jacquesson, purchased from Kunsthandel Klefisch, Asiatische Kunst, on 24 June 1995, lot 304.Literature comparison:A similar netsuke described as Otobide (hornless demon) is shown in Lazarnick, George (1982) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, Vol. 1, p. 475. 

A RARE NARWHAL TUSK AND SILVER KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON GRASPING A TAMAUnsignedJapan, late 19th centuryThe silver disc perfectly fitted into the narwhal bowl with typical ridged 'tree-bark' surface on the sides, the finely polished underside showing the beautiful natural marbling of the material. The coiled dragon with masterfully incised scales, gilt eyes, and grasping a mother-of-pearl inlaid tama (magical jewels) in its claws. The underside with an inset disc housing the central himotoshi, the cord attachment underneath the silver dragon disc.DIAMETER 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear to gilt and silver, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.

A SUPERB RITSUO-STYLE FOUR-CASE LACQUER INRO OF DARUMAUnsignedJapan, 19th centuryOf upright rectangular shape and lenticular profile, the four-case inro bearing a stunning, black-lacquered ground with intentional craquelure in imitation of an ink-cake, the front with a pottery-inlaid Daruma looking impishly, as if caught red-handed, a circular gold-lacquered medallion overgrown with leafy vines behind him, cracks in the gold fa̤ade revealing iron bars Рan allusion to a brothel, which Bodhidharma reputedly frequented. The reverse with a hossu (Buddhist fly whisk) executed in gold and silver takamaki-e, prayer beads, as well as a red-lacquered and green glazed pottery mokugyo (temple bell). Some details are embellished with aogai (mother-of-pearl), the interior is of nashiji with gold fundame edges. With a tubular malachite ojime and an en suite wood netsuke in the shape of a brazier and depicting Okame parodying Daruma, completely enveloped in her robe and laughing, two inlaid ebony beans in the front, likely an allusion to the setsubun festival.SIZE 7.8 x 5.4 cm (inro), HEIGHT 3.5 cm (netsuke)Condition: Excellent condition, minor wear, some tiny chips to edges.Provenance: Formerly the property of the Strong Museum, donated by Margaret Woodbury Strong (1897-1969), a prolific collector and founder and namesake of the museum. The interior of the bottom case with accession no. '75.195'.This masterful inro is rather interesting as it combines stylistic elements from Ogawa Haritsu (1663-1747) and his followers, as well as from Shibata Zeshin (1807-1891), particularly the superb 'ink-cake' ground and lacquered vine leaves are trademarks of the Zeshin school.

TENMIN: A MIXED METAL OJIME WITH HOTEI AND KARAKOBy Asama Tenmin, signed Tenmin 天民Japan, late 19th centuryIn the form of a treasure bag, decorated in gold, silver, and copper takazogan with Hotei raising an uchiwa (fan), dressed in a loose robe revealing his potbelly, his face with a joyful expression, the reverse with a karako attempting to reach the tied knot of the treasure bag. Signed TENMIN to the side.HEIGHT 1.9 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: German private collection, purchased from Nagel Auctions, 13 November 2004.Auction comparison:Compare a related gilt copper ojime of Hotei by Tenmin, second half of 19th century, at Lempertz, The Kolodotschko Collection of Netsuke IV, 5 December 2012, Cologne, lot 881 (sold for 930 EUR).

A POWERFUL OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A CROUCHING TIGERUnsignedJapan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Zacke (1989), Netsuke von Meistern, no. 44.Boldly carved and deeply stained, with particular attention devoted to the fur coat of alternating stripes and circles against the neatly incised fur. The bulky creature does its very best to look fierce, its head turned back, the eyes inlaid, the animal about to snarl with sharp fangs showing at the corners of the mouth. The thick tail curls over the back and the massive, chubby paws are firmly pressed against the ground. Small himotoshi underneath, the cord channel generously excavated. A compact and pleasingly tactile ivory netsuke bearing a fine patina.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear and expected age cracks. Fine patina. Natural nerve channels are brilliantly incorporated into the design forming part of the tiger's fur coat.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, purchased from Galerie Gemini in 1990.The tiger (tora) is the third animal of the Asian zodiac and represents courage, resilience, and strength. It also plays an important role in Daoist philosophy providing a counterpoint to the dragon (tatsu). The tiger is not native to Japan; therefore, images of tigers were only known from Chinese paintings or on rare occasions when the tiger's fur was imported into Japan. This brings to mind a Japanese proverb - "When the tiger dies, he leaves his skin, the man his name".Auction comparison:For a closely related ivory netsuke see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 22 March 2022, New York, lot 3019 (sold for 4,636 USD). Another closely related ivory netsuke was sold at Lempertz, Asian Art, 27 June 2020, Cologne, lot 329 (sold for 4,000 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0454). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

A FINE WOOD SHUNGA NETSUKE OF OKAME HOLDING A KONOHA TENGU MASKBy Sukekazu, signed Sukekazu 亮一Japan, Takayama, Hida school, late 19th centuryOkame, dressed in a Heian period robe, kneeling and smiling while holding in her right hand a konoha-tengu mask, its long nose pointing up. Her hair tied back into a loose knot, and the pupils are inlaid in black horn. The himotoshi ringed in green-stained bone and signed underneath SUKEKAZU.HEIGHT 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, few light surface scratches, minor wear.Provenance: German private collection.The long-nosed tengu is sometimes identified with the male Shinto deity Sarutahiko no Mikoto, who was captivated by Uzume, the Shinto goddess of mirth, with whom Okame has become associated.

OSHIN: A SUPERB STAG ANTLER 'LOTUS' SASHI NETSUKEBy Imai Oshin (1880-1951), unsignedJapan, Kyoto, c. 1900Naturalistically carved in the form of a segmented lotus root issuing a yet to unfurl leaf and seed pod, the leaf and segments masterfully incised. The cord attachment between the main segment and leaf.LENGTH 14.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: British collection.Imai Oshin (1880-1951) lived and worked in Kyoto and is considered one of the finest artists creating burlwood okimono, trays, and scepters for sencha tea ceremony. His work typically reveals a subject hidden in a natural form, the present netsuke resembling a stylized praying mantis. His netsuke are considerably rare and usually date to his early years, between the late 1890s-1910s.The lotus is a well-known symbol of purity in Buddhism, its leaf and flowers floating on the surface of water, while below its roots are submerged in the stagnant waters of earthly desire. Beauty is achieved by rising above attachment to material things.Literature comparison:Compare to a near-identical stag antler okimono, measuring 28.6 cm, by Imai Oshin, illustrated in Bandini, Rosemary (2016), Japanese Netsuke, Kiseruzutsu Lacquer and Works of Art, no. 26.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related stag antler scepter in the form of a lotus root, by Imai Oshin, sold at Bonhams, The Zuiun Collection, 15 March 2017, New York, lot 5035 (sold for 12,500 USD).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

KORYU: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A HORNED SHISHI KORO (INCENSE BURNER)By Koryu, signed Koryu 好柳Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The koro in the form of a horned shishi with stout body and short curled feet, flames emanating from the sides, its face with an amusing expression, the mouth agape (allowing smoke to be released) revealing sharp fangs, the horn encircled by a swirling mane and touching the curled tail handle. Good, asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside, formed by one larger oval hole and a smaller hole ringed in green-stained antler. Signed KORYU to the back.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear. Fine, warm polish.Provenance: Ex-collection Alan R. Liss, sold at Sotheby's, Fine Netsuke Including Property from the Collection of Alan R. Liss, 2 September 1993, Chicago, lot 241.13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

TOYOKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A CARPBy Toyokazu, signed Toyokazu 豊一Japan, Sasayama, Tanba province, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The plump carp of compact, tactile form with curled up tail and short fins, the body finely incised with scales and gills, the eyes inlaid, the wood typically stained. Asymmetrical himotoshi underneath and signed TOYOKAZU.LENGTH 4.9 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few tiny nicks, some typical losses to staining.Provenance: German private collection.Shugasai Toyokazu is widely regarded as the most accomplished pupil of Naito Toyomasa (1773-1856).Literature comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of a carp by Naito Toyomasa, illustrated in Meinertzhagen, Frederick / Lazarnick, George (1986) MCI, Part B, p. 951. Note the finely incised scales, the inlaid eyes and curled tail. Compare a related wood netsuke of a fugu fish by Toyokazu, illustrated in Eskenazi, the Charles A. Greenfield Collection of Japanese Lacquer, London, 1990, p. 74-75, no. 29.

BISHU: A FINE CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF AN EAGLE SNATCHING A RABBITBy Katsutoshi Saito (Bishu, born 1943), signed Kenyosai Bishu 乾洋齋 美洲 with seal Bishu 美洲Japan, Tokyo, c. 1980Finely carved, the eagle depicted in a windswept dynamic motion, snatching a large rabbit between its talons and looking to its left, the poor rodent curling up into a ball, forming a compact composition. The details are well carved, and the feather work of the eagle is neatly detailed. Two asymmetrical himotoshi and signed Kenyosai BISHU with seal Bishu.HEIGHT 4.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Miriam Kinsey (1977), arguably THE authority on contemporary netsuke during the 20th century, notes: “the freedom of expression and the carving expertise currently shown by Bishu have created works that will no doubt summon converts to the collection of contemporary netsuke”

IKKOSAI: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO MONKEYS FIGHTING AN OCTOPUSBy 'Saru' Ikkosai, signed Ikkosai 一光齋Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved, partially in sukashibori (openwork), depicting two monkeys and an octopus engaged in a vicious fight, the octopus writhing its tentacles around the monkeys, the simians struggling to compete. The bulging eyes of the octopus are inlaid in dark horn and the hairwork of the monkeys is finely incised providing an appealing contrast to the smooth, tactile texture of the octopus's slippery skin. Many options for 'natural' himotoshi due to the openworked and dynamic nature of the piece, one of the tentacles with the signature IKKOSAI to the underside.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with only minor surface wear.Provenance: Old German private collection.'Saru' Ikkosai carved several of these, each one distinctly different, however. As opposed to the closely related netsuke sold at Lempertz on 7 June 2019, our monkeys are clearly losing the fight, the octopus having them completely entangled in its tentacles.The subject of monkeys fighting an octopus references a legend in which the octopus-physician of Ryujin, the Dragon King of the Sea, prescribes a monkey's liver to heal the king's daughter.For a detailed discussion of the artist see INSJ Vol. 39, no. 3, Fall 2019, pp. 29-34.Auction comparison:Compare with a closely related ivory netsuke by Ikkosai, depicting an octopus fighting two monkeys, at Lempertz, Japanische Kunst, 7 June 2019, Cologne, lot 426 (sold for 7,192 EUR). Compare with another closely related ivory netsuke by Ikkosai, depicting a monkey fighting an octopus, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 16 April 2021, Vienna, lot 202 (sold for 7,584 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0529). 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 EXQUISITE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DIVING GIRL (AMA)UnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An exquisite ivory netsuke depicting a diving/fisher girl (ama) with an elaborate hairstyle holding an awabi shell in one hand before her body, the other holding a strand of her hair. Her finely inked hair is parted in the middle, revealing her sensually sculpted, supple breasts, and her back. Her straw skirt resembles a minogame's tail and is, like her hair, treated with sumi ink. Her facial features are crafted sensitively; she has plump, full cheeks, her eyes are cast downwards, and she wears a gentle smile. She lifts one foot ever so slightly, lending movement to the composition. The ivory is beautifully worn with spots of honey patina. Large, asymmetrical, and generously excavated himotoshi to the reverse.This is certainly one of the finest and most characterful netsuke depicting an ama.HEIGHT 7.4 cmCondition: Very good condition. The ivory slightly worn with few expected age cracks. The right foot with an old worn-down chip and a tiny restoration to one toe.Provenance: Sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 28 (sold for 9,480 EUR). A 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 22-B-0561). 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.

IKKU: AN UNUSUAL CONTEMPORARY KOKUTAN WOOD NETSUKE OF A STYLIZED SPARROWBy Isamu Kasuya (Ikku, born 1949), signed Ikku 一空Japan, Tokyo, 20th centuryCarved from kokutan (ebony) wood embellished with various colored inlays and formed as a möbius-like band of waves taking the form of a stylized sparrow. Two small beaked birds with gilt metal eyes emerge from the structure facing into the central opening. The back with a beautifully stippled ground and the two himotoshi formed by one larger and one smaller hole. Signed on a polished rectangular reserve IKKU.HEIGHT 5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.Literature comparison: A closely related kokutan wood netsuke by Ikku depicting waves is illustrated in Spindel, Michael (1993) Contemporary Netsuke, no. 36.Auction comparison:A set consisting of a netsuke and ojime by the artist was sold at Bonhams, Asian Decorative Art, 28 September 2005, San Francisco, lot 4562 (sold for 7,637 USD).Ikku is widely regarded as one of the greatest contemporary netsuke carvers of the 20th century. His output is fairly limited, and he preferred to never repeat subjects. He studied under the master carver Yasafusa Saito.

BISHU: A LARGE BONE NETSUKE OF A WHALE WITH YOUNGBy Katsutoshi Saito (Bishu, born 1943), signed Garyu Bishu 臥竜美洲 with seal Bishu 美洲Japan, Tokyo, c. 1993Finely carved from bone, most likely whale bone, as a large bellowing whale nestling its young against its body with its right pectoral fin, the eyes of both inlaid in reddish horn. The cord attachment is formed by the elegantly curving tail of the adult. Signed underneath in a polished area Garyu BISHU.LENGTH 10 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.Bishu (actual name Katsutoshi Saito) was born 1934 in Tokyo. He studied sculpture at the Taiheyo Art Academy and learning carving from his father, Shosai Saito. In the “contemporary netsuke movement” that aimed to create new artistic work starting in the 1970s, Bishu was one of the central artists who exhibited new and novel contemporary netsuke. In 1981 his work was acquired by the British Museum.After recovering from eye surgery, Bishu changed his signature to read Bishu III and added the appellation “Garyu”, or “awakening dragon”.

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNIN WITH TWO TOADSAttributed to the school of Hokyudo Itsumin, signed Masatsugu 正次Japan, Edo (Tokyo), first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The immortal dressed in his characteristic artemisia leaf cloak, carrying an oversized toad on his shoulders, and grasping for a smaller toad in his left hand, his long beard touching the smaller toad's head. His face with an amused expression. Large himotoshi through the back, signed at the left foot Masatsugu.HEIGHT 7.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, the toes possibly with some repairs.Provenance: European collection.Literature comparison:A closely related wood netsuke of Gama Sennin with one toad is illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 1, p. 526.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of Gama Sennin with two toads by Itsumin, mid-19th century, at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from a French Private Collection, 4 November 2020, London, lot 27 (sold for 3,562 GBP).

MEIKEI: A MASTERFUL CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF 'SONEZAKI SHINJU' (LOVER'S SUICIDE)By Shigeru Takayama (Seihosai Meikei, born 1932), signed Seihosai Meikei聖峯齋明恵Japan, c. 1990Published: Illustrated on the front and back cover of Michael Spindel Ltd., An Exhibition of Contemporary Netsuke and Ojime, 1991, New York, and on p. 21, no. 32.Masterfully carved, depicting the iconic scene of 'Sonezaki Shinju' (The Love Suicides at Sonezaki), with Tokubei thrusting a razor into Ohatsu's throat, his face distorted with anguish, while she holds prayer beads in her folded hands, looking up into his eyes pleadingly. Their robes are rendered with remarkably fine details, the folds suggesting life-like movement. The razor is carved from mammoth tusk, the eyes are double inlaid in shell. Natural himotoshi through a fold in the robe, signed SEIHOSAI MEIKEI.HEIGHT 7.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.Seihosai Meikei, born as Shigeru Takayama in 1932 in Kyoto prefecture, studied carving netsuke under Meigyokusai for over twenty years. His preferred material is wood, often embellished with intricate inlays. Meikei is especially known for his dramatic scenes of lesser-known legends, plays, and novels. The present netsuke is arguably his masterpiece.The Love Suicides at Sonezaki is the most famous and best-loved play by Chikamatsu. It was first staged in 1703, based on a real, recent event, and instantly became a big hit. It remains one of the most popular plays in bunraku. The Love Suicides at Sonezaki was the first play by Chikamatsu that was exclusively written to be played by puppets, but due to the popularity of the play, it has since been adapted to kabuki, movies, modern plays, and even comic books.

A FINE EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF ARIOMARU STRUGGLING WITH AN OCTOPUSUnsignedJapan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The fisherman wearing a jacket and neatly incised straw skirt, bent over a large octopus (tako) which wriggles its tentacles around the man's neck, the man in return grabbing the cephalopod's head and one of the tentacles, all while screaming into the sky. Both the combatant's eyes are inlaid in pale horn. The well-toned wood bearing a fine patina. The underside shows a culmination of wriggly tentacles, one of them forming the natural himotoshi.LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.This netsuke references Ariomaru, the servant of the exiled priest Shunkan, battling with a giant octopus that had attacked his master. The story is the subject of the Noh play “Shunkan”, which is traditionally attributed to Zeami Motokiyo.Literature comparison:For a related wood netsuke by Jugyoku see Eskenazi (1993) Japanese Netsuke from the Carré Collection, no. 119.

MASATAMI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH CANDLEBy Masatami, signed Masatami 正民Japan, Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved from a choice piece of pure-white ivory, lightly stained, depicting a rat with large inlaid eyes of dark horn and beautifully incised fur, scratching itself with its right hind paw and holding onto a candle with both front paws. The unusually long and well-carved tail curls around and underneath the rodent's body forming the natural himotoshi. Signed within a neatly polished reserve underneath MASATAMI.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear and few natural age cracks.Provenance: Old German private collection.Literature comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke of a rat with candle by Masatami was exhibited during the 4th INS convention, Honolulu, 1981 and illustrated in the International Netsuke Collectors Society Journal (INCSJ), vol.9, no. 2, p. 38, no. 44.Auction comparison:Compare to an ivory netsuke of two rats on a fan by Masatami, sold at Lempertz, Netsuke und Sagemono inkl. Sammlung Kolodotschko V, 9 June 2017, Cologne, lot 602 (sold for 2,728 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0536). 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.

SHUYA: A WOOD NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNIN ON A TOADBy Shuya, signed Shuya 秋冶Japan, Echigo province, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: International Netsuke Society Journal (INSJ), 2001, vol. 21, no. 3, p. 29. (illustrated in a full-page advert by Sydney L. Moss Ltd.)Depicting Gama Sennin sleeping blissfully on the back of a massive toad, looking upwards, dressed in the typical mugwort cape and girdle. The toad with its head raised in an expression of irritated dismay, its body amusingly flattened, the eyes inlaid and ringed in metal, its masterfully carved warty skin contrasting with the smooth underside, the feet tucked neatly under its body. Himotoshi underneath, signed in boldly carved characters SHUYA - a pupil of the great Yasusada Shuzan. It is likely that Yasusada Shuzan originated this model, but Shuya's strongly individual flavour has improved upon his teacher's example. LENGTH 4.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear. Fine, smooth patina. Possibly some old, worn-down chips to the edges of the webbed feet.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond and Frances Bushell. A French private collection. Purchased at Rosemary Bandini, 2012. Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt. Theodor “Teddy” Hahn (1933-2012) 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.”The Japanese legend of Gama Sennin (English 'Toad Immortal') is based on the legendary Chinese figure Liu Hai, who is generally shown accompanied by a toad. According to legend, he can assume the shape of a toad himself. Chinese prototypes of this theme sometimes represent the immortal sitting on or resting his foot on the animal and holding a string of gold coins.Frogs and toads are symbolic animals in Japanese culture. They are often portrayed in poetry and art and are sometimes carried by travelers to make sure they return home safely from their journeys. The word 'frog' in Japanese is synonymous with 'return,' which is why it is considered a lucky animal and which brings good fortune.Literature comparison:Compare a near identical 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. Another closely related wood netsuke by Shuya, the face similarly carved, is illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 2, p. 1013.

SEIHO: AN UNUSUAL AND FINE BOXWOOD OF AN EAGLE ATTACKING A PRIESTBy Katsuo Azuma (Seiho, 1936-2003), signed Seiho 声方Japan, Ibaraki prefecture, 20th centuryFinely carved as an eagle attacking a priest and tearing off his eboshi hat, the man crouching with his right hand protecting his head, the face with a terrified expression and mouth agape, dressed in a fine robe, and holding a staff below. The eagle with a menacing stare, his talons tightly grasping the man, the plumage neatly incised, its eyes inlaid. Natural himotoshi through the tail and wing, signed underneath SEIHO. HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, acquired from Michael Bernstein, New York.Seiho, born as Katsuo Azuma in 1936 in Ibaraki prefecture, studied carving under the famous Hose Maguro until he turned 22. Seiho is well known for his legendary and mythological figures, animals, and religious subjects. He was a member of the International Netsuke Carvers Association and has received several awards from the Ueno Royal Museum and the Japan Art Association.

MASANAO: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF BENKEI INSIDE HORAGAIBy Masanao, signed Masanao 正直 Shinto ju 神都住Japan, Ise-Yamada, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The hero wearing the typical garment of a yamabushi warrior priest, with tokin cap, nestled inside a large conch shell and energetically blowing into a small conch horn (horagai), some details finely inlaid in dark wood. The conch shell naturalistically carved with elaborate details. The himotoshi are cleverly incorporated into the composition and are found through the tip and backside of the shell. Signed to the side MASANAO Shinto (no) ju [Masanao, a resident at the Capital of (Shinto) Gods].An early work by the Masanao family, the subject likely being unique. The inscription is interesting as well, with respect offered to the religious subject depicted and also identifying the workplace of Masanao, as the word Shinto 神都 (capital of the gods) references Ise, where the Grand Ise Shrine 伊勢神宮 is located.LENGTH 5.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, minuscule nibbling to exposed areas. Beautiful patina.Provenance: British private collection, purchased from Christie's, Japanese and Korean Art, 16 September 2003, New York, lot 241 (sold for 4,183 USD). The yamabushi were renegade mountain priests of the Shingon Tantric Buddhist sect, who used the conch to communicate their movements in the mountain wilderness.

TOMOMASA: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF RAKAN HANDAKA SONJA CONJURING A DRAGONBy Tomomasa, signed Tomomasa 友正Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Handaka Sonja dramatically holding his alms bowl aloft, a dragon emerging from it and clawing its way down the rakan's back, its body sinuously twisting, coiling around to the front and roaring obediently at its master, the dragon's eyes inlaid in dark horn. Handaka Sonja in turn pets the dragon on its head, and looks somewhat smugly, his majestic dragon-conjuring feat apparently not causing him any great effort. The ivory is lightly stained, and the details are superbly carved. Handaka Sonja's voluminous robe is dynamically swaying in the wind, his exposed muscular arms and rib cage are powerfully sculpted. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath the robe TOMOMASA. The lightly stained ivory slightly rubbed and bearing a fine patina.HEIGHT 6.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor associated surface wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Tomomasa is probably best known for his idiosyncratic netsuke depicting oni. The present netsuke is unusually powerful and large for the artist.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0465). 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.

YOSHIKAZU: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A QUIAL PERCHED ON MILLETBy Yoshikazu, signed Yoshikazu 良一Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a quail perched on two large heads of leafy millet, one of the leaves forming the himotoshi underneath and housing the signature YOSHIKAZU. The bird with neatly incised plumage and minutely inlaid eyes of dark horn. Beautiful, deep-yellow patina.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Old German private collection.Literature comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of a quail and millet by Yoshikazu, illustrated in Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. 2, p. 881.Auction comparison:Compare a related ivory netsuke of two quails on a millet by Okatomo, late 18th-early 19th century, at Bonhams, Asian Decorative Arts, 22 March 2016, San Francisco, lot 9448 (sold 3,500 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0532). 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 TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A FOX PRIEST (HAKUZOSU)UnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Standing almost completely enveloped in a priest's robe, a large cowl draped over its head, the two ears visible through the cloth at the top, the face with a sly expression and slightly opened mouth showing teeth, its human hands leaning against a long cane. Large, generously excavated himotoshi through the back. Beautiful, deep honey-yellow patina.HEIGHT 9.5 cmCondition: Very good condition with expected age cracks.Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, purchased in 1993.Hakuzosu is the name of a popular kitsune character who shapeshifted into a priest in the Kyogen play Tsurigitsune. Kitsune are creatures imbued with magical powers and are known to have the ability to shapeshift. 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 22-B-0453). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

TOMOTADA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT OX AND CALFSchool of Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠Japan, Kyoto, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A deeply stained, pleasingly worn rendition of the Tomotada ox and calf motif, depicting the ox reclining with its young nestled beside it, the calf gently licking the ox's side. The fur is finely incised and stained, the ox's pupils are of dark horn, carefully inlaid to give life to its expression. Deep-yellow patina, especially to the underside which houses the generously hollowed-out and asymmetrical himotoshi, as well as the signature TOMOTADA within a typical rectangular reserve.LENGTH 6.3 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks. Fine honey-brown patina.Provenance: Old German private collection.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a recumbent ox and calf, Kyoto school, 18th-19th century, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 20 March 2012, New York, lot 2094 (sold for 2,750 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0531). 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.

KANSHOSAI TOYO: A MAGNIFICENT AND LARGE GOLD LACQUER THREE-CASE INRO WITH PEACOCKSBy Kanshosai Toyo, signed Kanshosai 觀松齋 and kakihan and inscribed Hakugyoku hoin and kakihanJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The large rectangular three-case inro bearing a luxurious nashiji ground and lacquered in radiant gold and iro-e takamaki-e, hiramaki-e, further embellished with kirigane flakes and lustrous inlays of aogai (mother-of-pearl), depicting a proud male peacock displaying its opulent tail feathers, while the peahen watches on the reverse. The inside of gold fundame. Signed underneath in gold KANSHOSAI and kakihan and inscribed Hakugyoku Hoin and kakihan.HEIGHT 8.5 cm, LENGTH 7.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition. Only very minimal wear to lacquer.Provenance: German private collection, purchased from Van Ham, Asian Art, 2 December 2015, Cologne, lot 2463 (hammer price 6,500 EUR).The Iizuka Toyo (Kanshosai) line of lacquerers was famous and had many followers. The kakihan used on this netsuke best compares to the ones shown in row 'A' illustrated in Earle, Joe [ed.], 1995, The Index of Inro Artists, p. 312.The inscription Hakugyoku hoin (hoin/hogen being an honorific title) likely refers to the Kano school painter Kano Eisen who inspired several designs of birds by the Kanshosai line of lacquerers.Museum comparison:A closely related inro signed Kanshosai (designed by Hogen Eisen and sealed Hakugyokusai) is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met), New York, accession no. 29.100.759.Auction comparison:For a closely related inro depicting chickens by Kanshosai Toyo after a design by Kano Eisen, see Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2148 (sold for 10,370 USD).

MINKOKU: A LARGE IVORY MANJU OF ONIWAKAMARU SLAYING THE GIANT CARPBy Shuyusai Minkoku (Minkoku II), signed Minkoku 民谷Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of circular form, the thick manju finely carved in shishiaibori (sunken relief) and painted in sumi (ink) with Oniwakamaru about to slay the giant carp with his knife. The eye pupil of the carp inlaid in black horn with a metal rim. The reverse depicting a waterfall gushing from rocks and signed MINKOKU.DIAMETER 5.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks, minuscule nicks, and light surface scratches, fine honey-golden patina.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Oniwakamaru or 'young devil child' was the nickname given to the young warrior monk Musashibo Benkei (1155-1189) because of his enormous strength and violent nature. This netsuke shows the young boy attacking and slaying the giant red carp that swallowed his mother.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related ivory manju netsuke depicting Oniwakamaru slaying the giant carp, at Lempertz, Netsuke-Sammlung Kolodotschko II, 6 December 2014, Cologne, lot 879 (sold for 2,852 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0507). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

MASANAO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED RATBy Masanao, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The rat (nezumi) wrapping itself into a compact ball, forming a pleasingly tactile composition, the finely carved paws put to good work, grabbing its snout, scratching its ear, or grasping its long, well carved tail which curls around the back. The hairwork is neatly incised and the eyes are inlaid in dark wood. Natural himotoshi through one paw and signed underneath within a polished reserve MASANAO.The carving is quite different from no. 44, showcasing that although these were frequently made by the Masanao family, each rat has its own peculiarities.HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.

A FINE IVORY OKIMONO NETSUKE OF AN EMACIATED RAT CATCHERUnsignedJapan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Very finely carved as a disappointed rat catcher, dressed only in a loincloth, kneeling and holding down a box, looking backwards as the escaped rat which clambers over his back. His expression is masterfully worked, brilliantly capturing his anger and disappointment, while at the same time vilifying him. Note the extremely well carved bony fingers and toes, as well as the muscular and emaciated body. The pupils of both are inlaid in pale horn. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4.4 cm, LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with some expected age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:A closely related okimono is illustrated in Barry Davies Oriental Art (1990) Netsuke Classics, no. 16.Museum comparison:Compare a related ivory okimono netsuke of a rat catcher, dated 19th century, in the Victoria and Albert Museum, accession number 529-1904.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory okimono netsuke of a rat catcher by Kihodo Masakazu was sold at Zacke, Fine Japanese and Netsuke Art, 22 June 2019, Vienna, lot 317 (sold for 5,056 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0492). 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.

TOKOKU: A VERY FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF OKAME WITH BOY AND TENGU MASKBy Suzuki Tokoku (1846-1913), signed Tokoku 東谷 with seal Bairyu 楳立Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)Very finely carved, the Shinto goddess of mirth disguising herself and wearing a long-nosed konoha tengu mask, the loosely fitted robe opening at her chest, her finely incised hair tied into a top bun neatly inlaid with bone and coral accessories. One hand is leaning against a drum, and the other is holding a bamboo-incised fan against her face, a cheerful karako prodding against the fan's surface. Two drumsticks and a bird-shaped toy are carved in the back near the himotoshi, the signature TOKOKU with inlaid gold seal BAIRYU is found underneath. As is usually the case with this celebrated artist, the details are all superbly carved and the sparse use of inlay is clever without being over fussy.HEIGHT 3.1 cm, LENGTH 3.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Purchased from Michael Strone.

MASATAMI: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF THE SAMBIKI SARU (THREE WISE MONKEYS)By Masatami (Shomin), signed Masatami 正民Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Finely carved and stained, depicting the three wise monkeys (hear no evil, see no evil, speak no evil) arranged in a compact circle, covering each other's mouth, ears, or eyes. The facial expressions are executed in the typical manner of the artist with small squinty eyes painted with black sumi and minutely inlaid pupils of dark horn. The hairwork is neatly incised. Note the superbly carved bony fingers. The underside with the signature MASATAMI in a typical rectangular reserve and the natural himotoshi through one of the monkey's legs.LENGTH 3 cm, HEIGHT 2.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor surface wear. Provenance: Italian private collection.Monkeys are a favorite subject of Masatami, his treatment of them being idiosyncratic and imbued with a healthy portion of humor and wit. The subject of the sambiki saru is rare for the artist, with no other examples recorded in literature.Auction comparison:Compare to an ivory netsuke of two monkeys, by Masatami, sold at Christie's, The Japanese Aesthetic, 15 May 2013, London, lot 420 (sold for 3,250 GBP).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 WOOD NETSUKE OF A NAKED MAN TYING HIS FUNDOSHIUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The naked man visibly struggling, his face amusingly contorted as he ties his loin cloth too tightly, thereby nipping him in a tender spot, one hand holding the cloth in place to the front and the other grabbing the other end to the back. His back subtly incised showing the ribs and spine. The wood of an appealing color with a good patina. One leg is slightly lifted, lending movement to the composition, yet the netsuke stands perfectly as the endpiece of the towel supports it. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 7.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: British collection.Literature comparison:This model is rather uncommon in wood, a related netsuke in ivory is in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, formerly in the Bushell collection, accession no. 91.250.167.Auction comparison:Compare a related marine ivory netsuke of a naked man, 19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, lot 255 (sold for 3,286 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

KENJI: A FINE CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF A BAT WITH YOUNGBy Kenji Abe (born 1947), signed Kenji 賢次Japan, Tokyo, 20th centuryFinely carved and attractively stained as a bat mother dynamically lifting its left wing in a matador-esque posture, its young awkwardly clambering up over its back, the well-carved bony feet clinging onto the mother's wings, forming the natural himotoshi. All eyes are inlaid in dark horn. Signed underneath KENJI.HEIGHT 4.6 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.Kenji Abe (born 1947) learned carving from his father Godo. He is versatile in any subject matter and material and is a member of the International Netsuke Carvers Association. His works are, amongst others, in the collection of HIH Prince Takamado (1954-2002).

KOICHI: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY PICKING FLEASBy Koichi, signed Koichi 光一Japan, second half of 19th centuryFinely carved and stained as a seated, large-headed monkey delousing itself, its dense coat very finely incised, the eyes inlaid with yellow horn. Natural himotoshi through the legs and arms, signed underneath within an oval reserve KOICHI.HEIGHT 3.6 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.The Japanese monkey, or saru, is part of the zodiac and is considered capable of keeping away demonic forces. Auction comparison: Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a monkey by Koichi, at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from a French Private Collection, 4 November 2020, London, lot 86 (sold for 2,295 GBP).

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI ON MOKUGYOUnsignedJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, second half of 19th centuryA cleverly carved composition depicting a shishi (Buddhist lion) nestled up close to a mokugyo (temple bell), its long tail trailing down the handle, which like the shishi's tail, terminates into finely carved curls. The front is engraved with a large bonji character, saku, underneath a finely etched cross-etched pattern, also found on the reverse. The backside with a central himotoshi. The finely stained ivory bearing a deep, lustrous patina.HEIGHT 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, some fine age cracks. Tiny, old chip to the himotoshi.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:Compare to a related netsuke in Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan', Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., 2016, no. 352, unsigned but attributed to Rensai, using the same bonji character saku. The present netsuke also shows some similarities to Rensai's work.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke by Hoshunsai Masayuki, sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 2 November 2019, Vienna, lot 250 (sold for 2,148 EUR).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0484). 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.

SHINZAN MASANAO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A BOARBy Shinzan Masanao (born 1904), signed Shinzan 辰山Japan, Ise-Yamada, 20th centuryFinely carved, the creature raising its head, the eyes inlaid in dark horn, the small tusks at the corner of the mouth showing, the hairwork superbly incised, and the crisply carved feet folded underneath for compactness. Two himotoshi and signed within a polished reserve on the haunch SHINZAN.LENGTH 4.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, few light surface scratches, minor wear.Provenance: European collection.Auction comparison:Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a family of boars by Shinzan Masanao, early 20th century, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 19 March 2014, New York, lot 3129 (sold for 4,000 USD).

A SPECTACULAR AND LARGE WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF A FEMALE DEMONUnsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An exceptional and large mask depicting a menacing female demon. The mask is most likely a Hannya mask, certainly appearing more ferocious than usual, though there is still a semblance of melancholy in her eyes, and particularly in the way the eyebrows are formed. The wood is of a very good patina, accentuated in some areas for effect, and the carving is masterfully expressive. The female demon has its mouth opened wide showing the many teeth and four fangs. Her nose and cheekbones are pronounced, she has two curved horns and her hair is finely flowing to the side. Himotoshi behind the central bridge in the back formed by a finely carved rope with tassels, which is used in the Noh performances to tie the mask around the actor's head.HEIGHT 8 cmCondition: Very good condition, beautiful patina. Some tiny chips here and there. Provenance: Ex-collection Dr. Walter Heihs, sold in his sale at Sotheby's, 17 June, 1998, lot 759, purchased by the European collector P. Jacquesson.

AN IVORY NETSUKE OF FUKUROKUJU AND KARAKOUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved and stained, depicting the long-bearded lucky god Fukurokuju with a scroll in his hands, a Chinese boy hiding behind him, the lucky god wearing a finely engraved robe incised with a diapered pattern, his amusingly large head covered by a cowl with brocade design, his joyous face flanked by pendulous earlobes. 'Chimney himotoshi' through the back and underneath the robe.HEIGHT 5.6 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, few natural age cracks, fine honey-yellow patina.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Fukurokuju (福禄寿) is one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese mythology. It has been theorized that he is a Japanese assimilation of the Chinese Three Star Gods (Fu Lu Shou) embodied in one deity. Similar in appearance to the Chinese star god Shou, he symbolizes wisdom and longevity.Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0488). This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

KOKEI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT BOARBy Kokei, signed Kokei 虎溪Japan, Kuwana, Ise province, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bandini, Rosemary (1999) Shishi and other Netsuke. The Collection of Harriet Szechenyi, p. 105, no. 156.Depicted in a recumbent posture, the body slightly curved, its legs tucked underneath the body for compactness, the reishi-shaped snout lifted into the air, and the ears drawn back curiously. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn and the fur is masterfully incised in the typical manner of the artist. The underside shows the well-carved hooves and signature within a polished reserve KOKEI. Natural himotoshi.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection Harriet Szechenyi.Literature comparison:For another wood netsuke of a boar by Kokei, dated c. 1800, see Atchley, Virginia / Davey, Neil (2006) The Virginia Atchley Collection of Japanese Miniature Arts, p. 51, no. N43.Auction comparison:A closely related ebony wood netsuke of a boar by Kokei was sold at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from a French Private Collection, 4 November 2020, London, lot 98 (sold for 5,687 GBP).

VADYM PYVOVAR: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A TIGERBy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2022Charmingly carved as a tiger seated on its rear haunches, the head turned backwards, the eyes inlaid, its fur neatly incised, and the tail elegantly curved. The paws very finely rendered in the style of Toyomasa. Natural himotoshi through the curled tail, one leg with a rectangular reserve incised with the artist's initials.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison:Compare to an example which inspired this model by Naito Toyomasa, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part III, 6 November 2018, London, lot 53 (sold for 28,750 GBP). Compare a related wood netsuke of a tiger by Vadym Pyvovar, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 27 May 2022, Vienna, lot 270 (sold for 2,781 EUR).