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A RARE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A BATUnsignedJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a somewhat bulky bat (komori), the wings resting beside its body, and the pointed tail curling underneath. The fur is very finely incised, and the expression is amusingly whimsical with tiny inlaid eyes of lustrous dark horn. Large, generously excavated himotoshi through the underside.LENGTH 5.3 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: European collection.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke by Horaku, note the similar minutely inlaid eyes, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke, Part III, 6 November 2018, London, lot 118 (sold for 5,265 GBP).

TOYOKAZU: A FINE WOOD RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A DRAGONSchool of Shugasai Toyokazu, signed Toyokazu 豊一Japan, Sasayama, Tanba province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved in openwork, the thick manju netsuke pierced with a dragon amid billowing clouds, the wood finely stained and the visible eye inlaid with pale translucent horn. Natural himotoshi and signed TOYOKAZU within an oval reserve.LENGTH 4.4 cm, THICKNESS 2.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear and losses to staining. A small crack to the inlaid eye.Provenance: Czech private collection.Auction comparison: Compare a closely related wood manju netsuke of a dragon by Toyokazu, 19th century, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 102 (sold for 8,125 GBP).

SEIYODO TOMIHARU: A SUPERB EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A PERSIMMON WITH METAL-APPLIED ANTBy Seiyodo Tomiharu (1733-1810), signed Hako 波江Japan, Iwami province, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The persimmon (kaki) carved naturalistically from a heavy block of ebony wood, particular attention devoted to the shape, curvature, and superbly carved leafage and stem. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi to the side, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot, and signed in ukibori characters HAKO. The persimmon is further embellished with a gilt metal ant, which may have been added later by Jikan Ganbun.HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition, some thin age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Hako was the art name used by Seiyodo Tomiharu (1773-1810), founder of the Iwami school of carvers, during his youth (see Bushell, Raymond (1961) The Netsuke Handbook by Ueda Reikichi, p. 227).

VADYM PYVOVAR: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED SNAKE AFTER MATSUDA SUKENAGABy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2022Finely carved after the famous model by the Hida artist Matsuda Sukenaga, the scales rendered meticulously, and the eyes inlaid. The underside with natural himotoshi and signed with the artist's initials within a rectangular reserve.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison:Compare to an example which inspired this model by Matsuda Sukenaga, sold by Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 9 November 2017, London, lot 5 (sold for 13,750 GBP). Compare also a closely related netsuke by the same artist at Zacke, Japanese Art, 27 May 2022, Vienna, lot 266 (sold for 3,286 EUR).

A RARE WOOD GYODO MASK NETSUKE OF TAMONTENInscribed with the name of the mask 'Tamonten' 天聞多 Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bushell, Raymond (1985) Netsuke Masks, p. 19, no. 29.A religious Gyodo wood mask netsuke depicting Tamonten, one of the four Shi Tenno (heavenly kings), the guardians of the four directions. Tamonten guards the north and is derived from the Hindu deity Kubera.The wood mask netsuke is finely carved from a dark wood with reddish hues. The expression radiates with Buddhism – the sculptors of the original Gyodo masks also carved fixed images of Buddha in different manifestations, various divinities, and bodhisattvas. Tamonten has large ears with thick lobes, finely carved hair which appears like wings on the sides, and sensitively crafted lips. He has two pierced eyeholes, like the life-size masks would have. The original shape of the Gyodo mask is also retained, as this type would cover the entire head and neck. The guardian deity wears a headpiece surmounted by a tear-shaped finial and decorated with a finely incised flower, indicating the four directions, in high relief against a stippled ground. One central himotoshi through the back, above the inscription 'Tamonten', the other himotoshi natural through the opening of the mask in the underside.Gyodo is a Japanese Buddhist ceremony where the procession is purely religious. Gyodo masks are the earliest known masks in Japan and were not worn by actors but by priests. As with Gigaku and Bugaku masks (nos. 238 & 239), the Gyodo mask netsuke were never signed but rather inscribed with the name of the mask, out of respect for the ceremony and for the sculptors of the original masks.HEIGHT 3.5 cm, LENGTH 3.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond Bushell, then European collection P. Jacquesson.

MASANAGA: A MASTERFUL NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO PLAYING RATSBy Masanaga, signed Masanaga 正長Japan, Nagoya, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Exhibition catalogue, The Japan House Gallery New York, The Magnificent Three: Lacquer, Netsuke and Tsuba, Selections from the Charles A. Greenfield Collection, no. 146 (unillustrated).The two rodents huddled intimately, one forming a ball on the ground and covering one eye with one paw while the other clambers over it, the three visible eyes inlaid in lustrous, dark-reddish horn. The hairwork is masterfully incised against the deeply polished cherry wood, giving the netsuke a marvelously tactile feel in the hand. The underside shows both thick tails curling around, forming the himotoshi, and the finely carved paws, as well as the signature MASANAGA within a polished reserve.Not much is known about the artist other than that he worked in the Nagoya style and that his work is considerably rare. Masanaga's netsuke at their peak seem to possess more individual character and artistic freedom than his Nagoya contemporaries. The artist shows extraordinary powers of observation, not at least in the complicated interplay of the paws of the two rodents.HEIGHT 3.2 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor associated surface wear.Provenance: Hayashi Tadamasa (1853-1906), sold in his sale, Chevalier at the Hôtel Drouot, 16-21 February 1903, lot 1311. Then Charles A. Greenfield, sold in his second sale at Sotheby's New York, 18 September 1998, lot 61. With Scholten Japanese Art, New York, 2009. Sydney L. Moss, 2009. French private collection, acquired from the above.The only other example of a rat known thus far by the artist was sold by Max Rutherston Ltd., formerly in the collection of Rolf Schmoll, and depicting a rat balled in a similar way to the present netsuke.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke of a rat by Ikkan, sold at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from a French Private Collection, 4 November 2020, London, lot 44 (sold for 11,312 GBP). Also compare to a closely related wood netsuke of two rats by Ikkan, sold at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 110 (sold for 9,375 GBP).

MASANAO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EATING PERSIMMONSBy Masanao, signed Masanao 正直Japan, Ise-Yamada, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Seated with a leafy branch of ripe persimmons (kaki) between its legs and about to take a bite into one fruit, the right upper lip slightly moving upwards as a result. The details are finely carved and the monkey's hairwork is superbly incised, the smoothed fruits providing an appealing contrast to the dense fur. The underside shows the well-carved feet and further foliage from the persimmon branch, as well as the signature MASANAO within a polished reserve. Natural himotoshi through the monkey's left leg.HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear. Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.This model is more frequently seen bearing a Tomokazu signature rather than the signature of Masanao. This is yet another indication that these two carvers and their followers must have exchanged techniques, ideas and subject matter.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke of a monkey eating a fruit, by Masanao, sold at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, 10 May 2017, London, lot 109 (sold for 2,750 GBP). Another closely related wood netsuke, by Kano Tomokazu, was sold at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 153 (sold for 3,750 GBP).

A STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A MONK, ATTRIBUTED TO MASATOSHIAttributed to Nakamura Tokisada (Masatoshi) (1915-2001), unsignedJapan, Tokyo, second half of 20th centuryFinely carved from a choice piece of antler as an itinerant monk, leaning against a cane, screaming enigmatically with his mouth agape, the eyes inlaid in dark horn. Large himotoshi through the back.HEIGHT 5.7 cmCondition: Very good condition, tiny chip to the edge of one toe.Provenance: Ex-collection Richard R. Silverman, purchased from I.M Chait, Los Angeles, in 2000. Richard R. Silverman (1932-2019) was a renowned Asian art collector with one of the largest private collections of netsuke outside of Japan. He lived in Tokyo between 1964 and 1979 and began to collect netsuke there in 1968. Since the 1970s, he wrote and lectured about netsuke and was an Asian art consultant for Christie's, Sotheby's, and Bonhams. His gift of 226 ceramic netsuke to the Toledo Museum of Art constitutes perhaps the largest public collection of these miniature clay sculptures in the world. After moving to California, Silverman became a member of the Far Eastern Art Council at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1984. In 1993, he joined LACMA's Executive Board. He served on the board of directors for the International Society of Appraisers from 1986 to 1994 and served nine years as chair for the City of West Hollywood Fine Arts Commission. Richard Silverman was posthumously awarded the Order of the Rising Sun for his decades-long promotion of Japanese culture.Auction comparison:A related stag antler netsuke of a bakemono was sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 29 October 2021, Vienna, lot 216 (sold for 37,920 EUR).

A VERY RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A GIRAFFEUnsignedJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The horse-like animal reclining with its hooved legs drawn underneath the body for compactness, the bushy tail sweeping around and resting against its side, the very long neck rising tall, the animal looking backwards with a charming expression, the eyes double inlaid in pale and dark horn. Note the superbly carved mane and large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath. The well-toned wood bearing a superb, chocolate-brown patina.LENGTH 3.9 cm, HEIGHT 3.9 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear.Provenance: British private collection.The giraffe first came to Japan in 1907, although a stuffed specimen was displayed at the Tokyo National Museum in 1877. Japanese paintings of giraffes began earlier, from the end of the 18th century, with their source being a giraffe taken from Africa to China in 1414 and presented to the Yongle emperor.As is well-documented with the tiger in Japanese art, accurate representations of the giraffe were scarce, the only source being the aforementioned Chinese paintings, which were certainly hard to come by. It is rather unlikely the anonymous carver of the present netsuke had seen any kind of accurate representation of this unusual exotic animal, though may have heard of it through rumors or hearsay and likened it to a horse with a very long neck.

HIDEYUKI: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF KIKUJIDO AND BAKUBy Hideo Sakurai (Kosei Hideyuki, born 1941), signed Kosei 廣晴with seal Hideyuki 秀之Japan, Tokyo, c. 1979Published: Kinsey Miriam, Carver's Workshops at the INCS Convention III, International Netsuke Collectors Society Journal (INCSJ), vol.7, no. 4, p. 48, no.8.Exhibited: INCS convention Honolulu, 1979.Finely carved and stained, depicting the chrysanthemum boy Kikujido slumbering, holding a leafy kiku-flower, and leaning against a baku, the mythical creature presumably about to devour the boy's nightmares. The details are superbly carved while still retaining a compact and tactile structure, furthermore the carving is imbued with great movement. The Baku's skin is covered in muscular tissue, the shaggy mane falling from its head down towards its back, which is slightly arched with a well-detailed rib cage and spine, the bushy tail flowing upwards from its haunches and touching the boy's finely incised, long hair. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath KOSEI with gold-inlaid seal HIDEYUKI.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Purchased from Michael Strone.Miriam Kinsey (1977), arguably THE authority on contemporary netsuke during the 20th century, notes: “[…] his netsuke are executed with his own original ideas and with delicate, detailed, and meticulous workmanship.”

SARI: A VERY RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A NINGYO (MERMAID)By Sari, signed Sari 左里Japan, Iwashiro province, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the mermaid pulling her tail fin with both hands towards her body, her long hair falling along her back. The scales, fins, and long hair are finely incised, the oval face with a hypnotic smile. Natural himotoshi through the tail and right arm, signed SARI within an oval reserve.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Good condition, one damage to the edge of the tail, possibly restored.Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt. “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.”Ningyo are half-human, half-fish sea creatures that equate with the mermaid of Western traditions. Most likely inspired by the sighting of dugongs in the ocean, folklore transforms them into alluring females, usually depicted cradling a baby to their naked breasts or holding a tama, the sacred jewel of the dragon king of the sea.Sari is well-known for his carvings of snails and animals, the present ningyo seems to be unique for the artist.Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of two fugu fishes by Sari, early 19th century, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke - Part I, 8 November 2016, London, lot 163 (sold for 5,000 GBP).

HIDARI ISSAN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A PILE OF DESSICATED FISHESBy Hidari Issan, signed Hidari Issan 左一山Japan, Iwashiro province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Depicting a pile of five fishes overlapping each other, their desiccated skins minutely detailed and stippled, the wood bearing a fine patina, and the eyes inlaid in mother-of-pearl with black-lacquered pupils. Several options for natural himotoshi due to the open-worked nature of the netsuke. Signed within an oval reserve HIDARI ISSAN.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear. Fine patina.Provenance: British private collection.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related wood netsuke, formerly in the collection of M.T Hindson, illustrated in Bandini, Rosemary (2019), The Larry Caplan Collection of Japanese Netsuke, no. 41.

TADATOSHI: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING DOGBy Tadatoshi, signed Tadatoshi 忠利Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Superbly carved, the peacefully sleeping dog curled into a ball, its head resting on its front paws and nestled against its thigh, the expression sensitively crafted. The hairwork is masterfully incised, in the typical manner of the artist, and the feet are tucked in neatly underneath the body, forming a pleasingly compact and tactile composition. Good himotoshi underneath, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot. Signed in ukibori characters within a raised rectangular reserve TADATOSHI. Attractively worn and bearing a fine patina.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear, some light surface scratches. Fine patina.Provenance: US private collection.Literature comparison:The subject is rare for Tadatoshi and his followers; the expression of the dog is akin to his netsuke of sleeping Shojo. For a closely related wood netsuke of a sleeping dog and pup by Tadatoshi, see Eskenazi (1978), Eighteenth to twentieth century netsuke, no. 36.

KENJI: A FINE CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF A MAKATSUGYO (DRAGON FISH)By Kenji Abe (born 1947), signed Kenji 賢次Japan, Tokyo, 20th centuryDynamically carved, the mythological creature with a feline-like head roaring, showing tongue and teeth, its scaly body swaying to the left, one wing extended and touching the tail fin, forming the natural himotoshi. The glaring eyes are double inlaid in pale greenish horn with dark pupils. Signed underneath KENJI.LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Excellent conditionProvenance: 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).

A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A MYRIAD OF SHELLSUnsignedJapan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A densely carved group of various shells, conches and clams of different shapes and sizes, worked in superb sukashi-bori (openwork), two of the shells with a minutely detailed landscape within referencing the 'clam's dream'. The lightly stained ivory bearing a superb patina, particularly to the underside which is warm and honey-yellow. The cord attachment is formed by a small trumpet conch underneath. Unsigned, but similar examples exist by both Gyokuhosai Ryuchin and Mitani Goho.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with minor associated surface wear. Fine patina.Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke by Gyokuhosai Ryuchin was sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 13 September 2011, New York, lot 2012 (sold for 1,750 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0555). 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.

HIDEYUKI: A CONTEMPORARY WOOD NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONIBy Sakurai Hideo (Hideyuki, born 1941), signed Hideyuki 英之Japan, Tokyo, 20th centuryShoki grabbing an oni by its hand, looking down with a menacing expression, a sword in his right hand, his robe decorated with colorful inlays. The oni crouching fearfully next to demon queller, his arms and feet adorned with gilt bangles. The eyes are inlaid in pale translucent horn with dark pupils. Himotoshi through the back, signed HIDEYUKI on a rectangular gold plaque.HEIGHT 6.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary, purchased from Michael Strone.Sakurai Hideyuki, born as Sakurai Hideo (1941), learned carving from his father Sakurai Hirokichi who worked under the art name Kosei. Miriam Kinsey (1977), arguably THE authority on contemporary netsuke during the 20th century, notes: “[…] his netsuke are executed with his own original ideas and with delicate, detailed, and meticulous workmanship.”Auction comparison:Compare a related wood netsuke of an elderly Ainu by Hideyuki, 20th century, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 16 May 2013, London, lot 20 (sold for 2,500 GBP).

A HIGHLY UNUSUAL AND HUMOROUS WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO MONKEYSUnsignedJapan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A highly unusual, shunga-esque wood netsuke of two monkeys, the larger monkey wrapping its feet around its ears and head in an acrobatic gesture, its two hands placed against its anus, while a smaller monkey clambers up over its back, looking away with a distressed expression. The details are finely carved, the hairwork neatly incised, and the expressions are typical for 18th-century carvings of monkeys. The subject is likely a parody of the sambiki saru, the large monkey resembling Kikazaru holding his ears and attempting to cover his mouth-like body part. Natural himotoshi through the young monkey's legs.HEIGHT 4.4 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, some tiny nicks here and there. Fine, smooth patina.Provenance: European collection.

MICHAEL BIRCH: BROKEN COWRIE SHELLBy Michael Henry Birch (1926-2008), signed with artist's initials 'MHB'1980Published: Birch, JKL (2013) The Art & Life of Michael Birch, p. 137.Exhibited: The Carvings of Michael Henry Birch, N.K.C, Los Angeles, 1981.Sotheby's Bond St., London, 1994.The Carvings of Michael Henry Birch, I.N.S.C., Honolulu, 1997.Michael Birch Netsuke Carver and Sculptor National College of Art & Design, Dublin, 1997.Carved from whale tooth, the surface superbly polished. Signed within a gold-inlaid tablet MHB.Michael Birch remarks the following: “It's very realistic but it's not carved from shell. The infinitely subtle difference between the natural object and the object made by a human being, is barely perceptible. It's that difference that becomes so vast once you have appreciated and understood that it was not produced by nature – it was produced by a human being. And that is the definition of art…For me there is something very dramatic about an object that is so realistic that I can fool the eye.”LENGTH 5.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: From the collection of Jonathan Birch, son of Michael Henry Birch.

TSUNEYOSHI: A FINE LACQUERED HAKO NETSUKE WITH OKINA MASK AND BELL TREEBy Tsuneyoshi, signed Tsuneyoshi 常義saku 作Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The two-part hako (box) netsuke with an overhanging cover bearing a highly attractive mottled olive-green ground and lacquered to the front in gold and silver takamaki-e with an Okina mask and bell tree, both used for the Noh play Okina. The interior of nashiji with gold fundame rims, the back with the gold-lacquered signature TSUNEYOSHI saku [made by Tsuneyoshi]. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment within.LENGTH 3.7 cmCondition: Excellent condition with only very minor wear to lacquer.Provenance: Austrian private collection.The artist is listed on page 317 in Earle, Joe [ed.] (1995) The Index of Inro Artists, p. 292. He was also known under the name of Shokosai 松光斎.

AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF A TIGERUnsignedJapan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved, the tiger seated on a rectangular base in a guardian-like posture, its face with an amusing gesture as if suddenly come to life. The tiger's fur coat is remarkably well preserved for this type of early netsuke. Natural himotoshi, as well as one pierced aperture to the underside. Beautiful deep-yellow patina.HEIGHT 4.5 cmCondition: Good condition with expected age cracks and associated surface wear, some natural flaws to the material.Provenance: Ex-collection Marcel Lorber (1900-1986), sold at Zacke, Ausstellung 1990, no. 115. Old Viennese 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-0458). 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 AND HUMOROUS WOOD AND NEGORO LACQUER NETSUKE OF HOTEI TAKING A BATHUnsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An amusing parody of the classic shunga-esque subject of a lady, or sometimes Okame, taking a bath, though this time it is Hotei leaning over a bathtub, his left hand immersed in water, the right hand cleaning his pendulous earlobe, and his face with a joyful expression as he proudly presents his corpulent body with large breasts. His loincloth is lacquered in the negoro-style. Natural himotoshi. HEIGHT 3.7 cm Condition: Good condition, minor wear, some natural age cracks, one larger crack between the tub and Hotei's body, some minuscule nicks. Provenance: European collection. Auction comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of Okame taking a bath, attributed to Tanaka Juntoko Minko, late 18th century, at Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries - Japanese & Korean Art, 10 September 2021, Vienna, lot 285 (sold for 2,402 EUR).

KAGETOSHI: A SMALL IVORY NETSUKE OF URASHIMA TARO ON A TURTLEBy Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi景利Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An intricately reticulated ivory netsuke by Kagetoshi, who became famous for his masterful use of sukashi-bori (openwork). Depicted is Urashima Taro riding a minogame (turtle), with cascades of foaming seawater crashing over them, holding a jewel box in one hand and a fishing rod in the other. The turtle on which he sits is actually Otohime, the daughter of Ryujin, the dragon kami of the sea. The eyes of the minogame inlaid in reddish horn. Florally rimmed himotoshi and signature KAGETOSHI in a rectangular reserve on the underside.HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, few minuscule losses to edges, some fine age cracks. The sumi-stained details worn.According to legend Urashima Taro saved a little minogame (straw-raincoat turtle) from an ill fate, which subsequently turned out to be the daughter of the dragon king. The next day a giant turtle appeared and brought Urashima to the underwater palace of the dragon god. Urashima stayed there for a few days and received a box and was told not to open it. When he returned, everyone he knew was gone and everything had changed, so in his bewilderment he opened the box and suddenly turned into an old man. He then heard a whisper from the sea telling him he was told not to open the box, in it was his old age…Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of Urashima Taro by Kagetoshi, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, London, 10 May 2017, lot 32 (sold for 2,500 GBP). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 22NL308331/20).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.

KAJIKAWA: A LACQUER MANJU NETSUKE WITH QUAILSBy a member of the Kajikawa family, signed Kajikawa 梶川 saku 作Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Of circular, domed form, the two-part manju netsuke carved from tagayasan wood and lacquered in iro-e hiramaki-e and with silver inlays depicting two quails amid grass strewn with dew drops. The reverse signed KAJIKAWA saku. Central himotoshi to the back, the cord attachment within.DIAMETER 3.8 cmCondition: Good condition, minor wear, minuscule losses, few natural age cracks.Provenance: New York private collection. The interior with an old Japanese label.

AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A DANCING KITSUNEUnsignedJapan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as a kitsune (fox), standing on one foot, its forepaws raised as it dances, the tail turned upwards. Excellent, generously excavated himotoshi to the back.HEIGHT 8.1 cmCondition: Very good condition, some wear, few natural age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.In Chinese and Japanese mythology the fox is one of several animals set on doing evil to mankind. In this it is partly aided by supernatural and demonic powers, which allow it to shapeshift, more often than not into a woman, young or old. It is omniscient and capable of taking possession of its human victims. There are many different Japanese folk tales associated with foxes. In the present netsuke the fox is probably caught in mid-transformation into a seductress.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.

MASAYUKI: A SUPERB STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A MONKEY CLAMBERING ON A LEAFY BAMBOO NODEBy Hoshunsai Masayuki, signed Masayuki 正之Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa district, late 19th centurySuperbly carved as a slightly curved bamboo node, a thin branch growing from just above the nodal joint terminating in three large leaves which reacquaint themselves with the node at the top. A minutely carved monkey is gripping the thin branch, one hand touching its head in a gesture of disbelief – perhaps he is wondering how the carver has managed to place him here – as he slides up and down freely. Himotoshi to the back, the other opening natural through the bamboo node. The seal character signature is engraved in a square reserve to one side MASAYUKI.HEIGHT 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with 'natural flaws' to the material.Provenance: French private collection.Museum comparison:A closely related stag antler netsuke of a monkey on bamboo node is in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London, accession no. 445-1904.Literature comparison:Compare to two closely related stag antler netsuke of a monkey on bamboo node in Moss, Sydney L. (2016) Kokusai The Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, vol. III, pp. 86-87, nos. 381 & 382.

JUGYOKU: A RARE WOOD AND STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A KAPPA PLAYING THE CUCUMBERBy Ryukosai Jugyoku, signed Jugyoku 寿玉Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A humorous wood netsuke of a kappa holding a green-stained stag antler cucumber in both hands, as if playing the biwa, the eyes and fangs inlaid in bone. The details are very finely carved. Himotoshi through the carapace in the back and signed underneath the right leg JUGYOKU.HEIGHT 3.3 cmCondition: Very good condition. The two arms are carved separately to hold the cucumber in place.Provenance: US private collection.Jugyoku was particularly skilled in combining various materials, the kappa holding a green-stained cucumber being one of his favored subjects. The present netsuke depicts this kappa in a particularly amusing and rather unique manner, holding his cucumber like an instrument.According to folklore there are two ways to escape a kappa-encounter unharmed. One is to feed it with a cucumber, which is the kappa's favorite food and the other is to bow, as kappa are exceedingly polite creatures and find it difficult to resist returning a bow. This is a problem for the kappa as the cavity on top of their head retains water, and if damaged or its liquid is lost, the kappa is severely weakened.Auction comparison:A closely related wood netsuke by Gyokusai was sold at Zacke, Asian Art Discoveries, 27 January 2020, Vienna, lot 592 (sold for 5,688 EUR).

HIDECHIKA: A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A ROARING SHISHI WITH BALLBy Hidechika, signed Hidechika 秀親Japan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Boldly carved seated, the muscular body well rendered, the shishi with a fierce expression, the eyes incised and with dark-inlaid pupils, the mouth agape in a roar, with a loose ball inside, the wild mane, bushy tail, and fur finely incised and heightened with sumi, its forepaws resting against a huge ball, which is carved with drapery and incised with foliate scroll. The underside with two asymmetrical himotoshi and the signature within an oval reserve HIDECHIKA. Beautiful, deep patina.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Very good condition with some surface wear and minor age cracks.Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris. Auction comparison: Compare a related ivory netsuke of a shishi by Sadayoshi, also dated early 19th century, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 15 (sold for 5,000 GBP). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0147).This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.

KENJI: A RARE MARINE TUSK NETSUKE OF A BAKU AND GHOSTBy Kenji Abe (born 1947), signed Kenji 賢次 to 刀Japan, Tokyo, 20th centuryA superbly carved netsuke depicting an unusual and clever subject – the nightmare-devouring baku encircling its trunk around a cycloptic ghost shrouded in ghastly flames, its long bony fingers hanging downwards and the face with a surprised and terrified expression, evidently caught in the act of appearing in a nightmare. The details such as the baku's curly mane and bushy tail are finely carved, the eyes of both are double inlaid in tortoiseshell and horn. Natural himotoshi and signed to the side of the ghost KENJI to [carved by Kenji].HEIGHT 3.8 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.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).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.

OUCHI SOSUI: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF OKAME AND FUKUROKUJUBy Ouchi Sosui (1911-1966), signed Sosui 藻水Japan, Tokyo, first half of 20th centuryPublished: Sagemonoya, So School Netsuke, no. 45.Superbly carved, the two gods dressed in elaborately flowing robes neatly engraved with bamboo designs, Fukurokuju drunkenly holding a sake cup in both hands while Okame shaves his huge, smooth head with a razor. The combination of Fukurokuju's decidedly phallic cranium and the bawdy Okame is quite clearly a shunga reference, rather amusingly it seems to be of great personal interest for Okame to keep Fukurokuju's head nice and smooth, as her cheeks are puffed in a wide, excited smile. All details are masterfully carved, as is typical for the artist. Two himotoshi and signature underneath SOSUI.HEIGHT 3.8 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Ouchi Sosui (1911-1966) was the eldest son of Ouchi Gyokuso (1879-1944). His real name was Jiro, and he was the only one of Morita Soko's pupils who completed his apprenticeship, becoming independent in 1932.Auction comparison:The only other variant of this model by Sosui, carved in wood, was sold at Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York (sold for 17,080 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0560). 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.

VADYM PYVOVAR: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL AFTER TADATOSHIBy Vadym Pyvovar, signed with the artist's markUkraine, 2022The snail emerging from within its shell, its body bent back over the side for compactness and with extended feelers. The himotoshi formed by part of the body beneath, signed with the artist's initials on a rectangular reserve underneath.LENGTH 4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Auction comparison:Compare to an example which inspired this model by Tadatoshi, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 17 May 2018, London, lot 121 (sold for 3,750 GBP).

MORIKAWA TOEN: A RARE BAMBOO SASHI NETSUKE OF A GUARDIAN LIONBy Morikawa Toen (1820-1894), signed Morikawa Toen森川 杜園 and kakihanJapan, Nara, second half of 19th centuryPublished: Lazarnick, George (1976) The Signature Book of Netsuke, p. 384Lazarnick, George (1981) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, vol. II, p. 1096J. Hawley, article on Gyokkin in the INSJ, 25/2 (2005), illustrated on p. 20, no. 20Atchley, Virginia / Davey, Neil (2006) The Virginia Atchley Collection of Japanese Miniature Arts, p. 88, no. N106.Exhibited: International Netsuke Collectors' Society Convention, Honolulu, 1977Finely carved from a section of bamboo (metake) as a Buddhist Lion raised on a double lotus pedestal, the base with neatly carved flowerheads, the guardian seated on its haunches in a distinctly powerful posture, a large ring handle in its mouth. The design is faithfully copied from an incense burner in the Shoso-in repository in Nara. The natural surface of the material is heightened with clever polishing and staining to replicate the bronze surface. The neatly polished reverse with two himotoshi and the inscription Shosoin hoko heigoro no shishi baku [Copy of handled incense burner of shishi in the Shosoin treasure house] and signed MORIKAWA TOEN with kakihan.HEIGHT 10.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection Virginia Atchley, CA.Morikawa Toen's netsuke are rare. Along with his contemporary Kano Tessai (1845-1925), Morikawa Toen (1820-1894) was one of the few artists allowed inside the Shoso-in repository to produce artworks decreed by the Imperial household.Morikawa Toen was known for his Nara ningyo (dolls) sculptures and as a noh actor. His work was admired by the Daimyo of Tosa, the magistrate of Nara, who awarded him with names from Japanese mythology. The Imperial household also became his patrons. He received many prizes throughout his career and was later commissioned by the newly founded Tokyo Imperial Museum to make copies of ancient works of artThe Shoso-in is the treasure house of the Toda-ji temple in Nara, Japan. From the very beginning, the Shoso-in has been sealed by the Imperial family. One was permitted to enter only with explicit permission from the Imperial family. Ninety-five percent of the fine arts and crafts in the Shoso-in were produced in Japan around the 8th century, with the remainder imported from the Tang Dynasty, Central Asia, India, Iran, etc. during the same period. Although these collections are not open to the public, selections are shown at Nara National Museum once a year in autumn.

OKAKOTO: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RUNNING BOARBy Yamaguchi Okakoto, signed Okakoto 岡言Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a galloping boar, its hind legs pushed back, front legs slightly bent, ears drawn back, and body arched, all in a dynamic forward motion. The hairwork is neatly incised and the eyes are inlaid in dark horn. The underside with large, generously excavated himotoshi and the signature within a rectangular reserve OKAKOTO. The ivory bearing a fine patina.LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Good condition with expected age cracks and surface wear. The right front leg restored.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Yamaguchi Okakoto, pupil and younger brother of Yamaguchi Okatomo, was a brilliant carver and excelled at carvings of animals. His work is considerably rarer than those of other members of the Oka- school.Literature comparison:A very similar ivory netsuke of a running boar by Okakoto, formerly in the Victor Topper collection, is illustrated in Hurtig, Bernard (1973) Masterpieces of Netsuke Art: One Thousand Favorites of Leading Collectors, no. 747.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of a running boar, unsigned but in the style of Okatomo, sold at Bonhams, Fine Netsuke from the Adrienne Barbanson Collection, 13 May 2013, London, lot 25 (sold for 16,250 GBP). Also compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of a galloping boar, by Okatomo, sold at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part I, 8 November 2016, London, lot 121 (sold for 5,250 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0478). 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.

JUZAN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAMBy Juzan, signed Juzan 壽山Japan, Edo (Tokyo), second half of 19th centuryA very finely carved study of a kappa with one hind foot caught in the jaws of a hamaguri clam as it climbs over it. The warty skin of the kappa is masterfully rendered, the eyes are inlaid, the shell is finely carved and the long hair surrounding the kappa's swirling vital fluids on the head are minutely incised. The surface of the clam is highly polished and attractively stained. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside, signed JUZAN – a pupil of Jugyoku. HEIGHT 3.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition, minor wear. Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary. Purchased from Michael Strone. This model is mostly associated with Suketada of Takayama, Hida province, and his followers. It is known however that his pupil Eguro Sukeharu lived in Edo most of his life where he used the signature Gyokusai and influenced members of the Edo school of carvers such as Jugyoku.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.

NAKAMURA KUYA: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAKAN WITH SNAKEBy Nakamura Kuya (1881-1961), signed Kuya 空哉Japan, c. 1920Smiling benevolently, his face framed by pendulous earlobes adorned with gilt earrings, with bushy brows and curly hair, his robe neatly engraved with karakusa and hanabishi designs and falling from one shoulder, holding a well-carved, coiling snake with both hands. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi to the back and signed KUYA in gold within an oval reserve.HEIGHT 4.9 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Nakamura Kuya (1881-1961) was the teacher and father of famous carver Nakamura Tokisada, better known under his go Masatoshi.Auction comparison:A closely related ivory netsuke of a rakan by Nakamura Kuya was sold at Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2136 (sold for 5,185 USD).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0479). 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.

JOKASAI: A SUPERB METAL-INLAID FOUR-CASE GOLD LACQUER INRO WITH DAIKOKU AND EBISU FISHINGBy Yamada Jokasai, signed Jokasai 常嘉斎Japan, second half of 19th centuryThe four-case inro of rounded shape, the front decorated in gold takamaki, hiramaki, togidashi, and nashiji-e against a black-lacquered ground, depicting the lucky gods Ebisu and Daikoku, fishing and holding up an oar respectively, the two deities superbly inlaid in silver and gold. The scene continues on the reverse where the sea meets the land, a silver crane descending above pine trees, heading straight towards Ebisu's catch in the form of a masterfully gold-inlaid fish. The interior compartments of dense nashiji with gold fundame rims. Signed underneath JOKASAI.HEIGHT 8.8 cm, LENGTH 5.8 cmCondition: Very good condition with only very minor wear to lacquer. Some minuscule nicks to edges of the compartments.Provenance: British collection.Auction comparison:Inro with metal inlays from the studio of Yamada Jokasai are rare. For a related example by Jokasai see Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 278 (sold for 6,320 EUR).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium – only for buyers within the EU.

YOSUI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SQUIDBy Yosui, signed Yosui 陽水Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Finely carved as a squid with a large smooth head, its tentacles forming a compact bundle below, two of them touching its head in an amusing gesture, the suckers neatly carved. The wood is lightly stained and beautifully polished. The eyes of the cephalopod are inlaid in reddish horn. Large, generously excavated himotoshi through the back above the signature YOSUI.HEIGHT 5.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor surface wear.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Literature comparison:For another netsuke by this rare artist, exhibiting a similar style and stain, depicting a ghost, see Jirka-Schmitz Patrizia, The World of Netsuke, The Werdelmann Collection at the Museum Kunst Palast Düsseldorf, p. 87, no. 286.

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

A SUPERB AND RARE TORTOISESHELL NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON WITH TAMAUnsignedJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Katchen, Arlette (2010) Netsuke 7, Vol. 1, p. 27, no. K53.Powerfully carved as a coiled dragon with meticulously incised scales, engulfed in finely carved clouds, and grasping a tama (magical jewel) in its claws, a small pearl inside its mouth, the glaring eyes double inlaid in pale translucent horn with dark pupils. The flattish manju-type netsuke is carved entirely from tortoiseshell (bekko), the natural depth of material used to its very maximum, clearly carved from an unusually thick section of the shell. Himotoshi between the open-worked clouds to the back.LENGTH 4.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Julius & Arlette Katchen collection, Paris.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.

OKATOMO: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A COCKERELBy Yamaguchi Okatomo, signed Okatomo 岡友Japan, Kyoto, late 18th- early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The cockerel or rooster (tori) sits proudly, its head turned backwards, with finely carved plumage and long elegant tail feathers, the eyes inlaid in dark horn. The underside shows the asymmetrical, generously excavated himotoshi, the tucked in feet and the signature inside a rectangular reserve OKATOMO. The ivory bearing a fine, yellowish honey patina.LENGTH 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear, some natural age cracks. An old, worn-down chip to the edge of one wing.Provenance: French private collection.Auction comparison:Compare to a closely related ivory netsuke of a cockerel by Okatomo, sold at Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 38 (sold for 3,750 GBP).Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number AT 22-B-0540). 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.

KOGYOKU: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF ARABABA OPENING THE TREASURE BOXBy Kogyoku, signed Kogyoku 光玉Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)Depicting a scene from the Tongue-Cut Sparrow (Shita-kiri Suzume), with the cantankerous Arababa, who cut the sparrow's tongue, opening the treasure box her husband had received. Much to her dismay, instead of treasure she is greeted by two bakemono, the towering rokurokubi stretching his long neck and licking the side of her face, while another three-eyed goblin touches her hand. The ivory is finely stained and polished. Himotoshi and signature inside a red-lacquered plaque KOGYOKU to the underside of the box.HEIGHT 4.2 cmCondition: Very good condition, minor wear and expected fine age cracks.Provenance: Collection Gabor Orszagh, Budapest, Hungary.Auction comparison:For another ivory netsuke depicting the same subject by Minkoku, see Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 227 (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-0500). 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.

MICHAEL BIRCH: TRUST ME (EVEN MOTIVATED GHOSTS DO IT)By Michael Henry Birch (1926-2008), signed with artist's initials 'MHB'England, 2000Published: Birch, JKL (2013) The Art & Life of Michael Birch, p. 43.Exhibited & Illustrated: Tactiles by Michael Henry Birch, I.N.S.C Boston, 2001.Carved from hippopotamus incisor, the eyes double inlaid in drawn crystal rod. Depicting a ghost emerging from ghastly flames and speaking with comically large hands in front of it, the well-carved bony fingers barely touching. Signed within a gold-inlaid tablet MHB.Michael Birch remarked the following: “Examples of wide-spread unconscious body language, a gesture frequently displayed by persons instinctively desiring to appear sincere, trustworthy, knowledgeable, relaxed, self-assured, unemotional and, among other things, at ease with the world. Alternatively, it can be a useful means of parking one's hands in a neutral for a brief period, until they can be put to better use as an animated accompaniment to speech".Robert Kinsey has written the following about Michael Birch's “Trust me” series: “Michael Birch netsuke pieces of “Trust me” are a strong statement of deep thinking of the artist. Many netsuke artists display their skill of carving and talent as true artists in the work that they produce. Michael does much more, he expresses his sense of humor as well as his deep thought into the science of body language”.HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 5.2 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: From the collection of Jonathan Birch, son of Michael Henry Birch.

MINRYOSAI: A VERY RARE KURUMI MASK NETSUKEBy Minryosai, signed Minryosai 眠了斎Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Published: Bushell, Raymond (1985) Netsuke Masks, p. 131, no. 306.Bushell, Raymond (1975) Netsuke Familiar & Unfamiliar, p. 145, no. 303.Carved from a kurumi (walnut) and depicting what Raymond Bushell describes as an “idiot head”. The fitting description is owed to the grotesque nature of the carving – the mouth is opened wide revealing the cleverly utilized natural structure of the walnut, and the eyes are large buttons of dark horn. Much of the natural orientation of the kurumi dictates the carving, as the bearded chin is formed by the pointed end and the ears as well are formed by the natural structure of the walnut. At the back of the boyish head of hair are finely carved leaves draping downwards, giving the impression that the 'idiot head' is rather a sage or a spirit. Signed in the reverse within a recessed reserve below the himotoshi MINRYOSAI.HEIGHT 3.5 cmCondition: Excellent condition.Provenance: Ex-collection Raymond Bushell, then European collection P. Jacquesson.Literature comparison:See a similar netsuke in Lazarnick, George (1982) Netsuke & Inro Artists, and How to Read Their Signatures, Vol. 1, p. 770.

A SELECTION OF CHINESE ART BOOKSIncluding R.Lockhart Hobson, The George Eumorfopoulos Collection. Catalogue of the Chinese, Corean and Persian Pottery and Porcelain, London, 1925-28, vols. 1 (2 copies), 2 (2 copies), 3 (2 copies), 4 (2 copies), 5 (2 copies), 6; P.Yetts, The George Eumorfopoulos collection: Catalogue of the Chinese & Corean Bronzes, Sculpture, Jades, Jewellery and Miscellaneous Objects, London, 1929-1932, vols.1, 2 and 3; L.Binyon, The George Eumorfopoulos Collection: Catalogue of the Chinese Frescoes, London, 1927; L.Binyon, The George Eumorfopoulos collection: Catalogue of the Chinese, Corean and Siamese Paintings, London, 1928; J.Ayers, The Baur Collection: Chinese Ceramics, vols.1, 2 2 copies), 3, 4, Geneva, 1972; P.F.Schneeberger, The Baur Collection: Chinese Jades, Geneva, 1976 (2 copies); J.Ayers, The Baur Collection: Japanese Ceramics; Geneva, 1982; M.Forrer, The Baur Collection: Japanese Prints, Geneva, 1994; V.Nicollier, The Baur Collection: Chinese Snuff Bottles, Geneva, 2007; P.Schneeberger, The Baur Collection: Japanese Lacquer, Geneva, 1984; M.Forrer, The Baur Collection: Japanese Prints, Geneva, 1994; B.W.Robinson, The Baur Collection: Japanese Sword Fittings, Geneve, 1980; M.T.Coullery and M.S.Newstead, The Baur Collection: Netsuke, Geneva, 1977; Burlington Fine Arts Club London, Exhibition of Early Chinese Pottery and Porcelain, London, 1911; Oriental Ceramics: the World's Great Collections: Musee Guimet, Paris, Tokyo, 1981; Oriental ceramics: the World's Great Collections: National Museum of Korea, Seoul, Tokyo, 1980-1982; Oriental Ceramics: the World's Great Collections: Tokyo National Museum, Tokyo, 1980-1982; J.Ayers, Far Eastern Ceramics in the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, 1980; M.Bussagli, L'Arte del Gandhara, Turin, 1984; Kawade Shobo, Collection of World's Ceramics, vols.1 to 16, Tokyo, 1961. (57).Footnotes:中國藝術參考書籍一組五十七冊Provenance: a European private collection來源：歐洲私人收藏For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

THREE WOOD TIGER NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThe first a tiger turning back with its long tail trailing up its back, the eyes inlaid, inscribed Minko with a kao, 4cm (1 9/16in) long; the second a tiger biting into a bent bamboo stalk, the eyes inlaid, signed Sadanobu, 3.7cm (1 7/16in) long; the third a tiger turning to its right to look back, inscribed Masanao, 3.8cm (1½in). (3).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEYBy Masanao, Yamada, Ise Province, Edo period (1615-1868), 19th centuryThe monkey seated in a leisurely manner, one hand resting on his knee, his mouth open as he takes a bite into a large persimmon, the eyes and teeth inlaid; signed beneath the left thigh in a polished oval reserve Masanao. 4.1cm x 2.7cm (1 5/8in x 1in).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

THREE WOOD NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThe first a cluster of three round capped mushrooms, signed Minko with a kao, 4.4cm (1¾in) long; the second a lotus pod, the wood stained, loose ebony seeds inside the holes, the stem curling back to form the himotoshi, unsigned, 4.3cm (1 11/16in) long; the third a cluster of four wide capped mushrooms of various sizes, the caps of two lacquered to simulate dirt, unsigned, 4.5cm (1¾in) long. (3).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

TWO WOOD AND ONE BAMBOO OKIMONO (TABLE ORNAMENTS)Edo period (1615-1868), probably 19th centuryComprising two wood models of Hotei, the God of Happiness, typically shown wearing loose robes partially open exposing his belly and carrying his treasure sack over one shoulder, one signed on the base Rokko, the third possibly a Chinese bamboo model of a recumbent adult shishi (Chinese mythical lion) playing with a brocade ball, its offspring clambering over its haunches; unsigned. The Hotei: 10cm (3 7/8in) and 11cm (4 5/8in) high; the shishi: 7.6cm x 10.5cm (3in x 4 1/8in). (3).Footnotes:A similar example of the second by the artist was sold at Spink & Son, 22 March 1990, lot 95. A similar unillustrated example is also in Frederick Meinertzhagen, MCI: The Meinertzhagen Card Index on Netsuke in the Archives of the British Museum, New York, Alan R. Liss Inc., 1986, p.652.This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

FIVE WOOD NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryAll unsigned unless otherwise stated; the first a dried shiitake mushroom cap, with a peach stone ojime, 4.8cm (1 7/8in) long; the second a gourd partially eaten by a small mouse hidden within, 4cm (1 9/16in) high; the third a wasp in a partially eaten and split pomegranate, inscribed Kogetsu, 3.3cm (1 5/16in) long; the fourth a man carrying an oversized gourd strapped to his back, the eyes inlaid, 4.6cm (1 13/16in) high; the fifth a small frog resting on a bamboo section, the eyes inlaid, 4.6cm (1 13/16in) long. (5).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

A GROUP OF SEVEN NETSUKE, A WALNUT CARVING, AND A MINIATURE SAYA (SHEATH) INROEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryAll unsigned unless otherwise stated; the first netsuke a red-lacquered manju, carved all around with a snail amongst chestnuts, lotus, beans and other assorted ripe vegetables on a diaper pattern ground, 5cm (2in) diam.; the second netsuke a red-lacquered manju, the front carved with peaches and bats amongst flowers and foliage, 5.8cm (2¼in) long; the third netsuke a carved walnut shell with a rakan blowing a conch shell, surrounded by a sinuous dragon, 3.1cm (1 3/16in) high; the fourth netsuke a carved walnut shell with three karako (Chinese boys) playing tug-of-war and overcoming Daikoku at the other end, inscribed in a rectangular reserve with raised ukibori characters Akamagaseki no ju Seigyuken Gaho, Bunka jusan-nen kito gejun (Seigyuken Gaho, living in Akamagaseki [present-day Shimonoseki], end of the twelfth month in 1816), 3.3cm (1 5/16in) high; the fifth netsuke a kagamibuta with a Satsuma earthenware plate and wood bowl, the plate depicting a finely dressed beauty in a garden, 5.2cm (2 1/16in) diam.; the sixth netsuke a brass hiuchi (tinder lighter), inlaid with scattered blossoms, 4.4cm (1¾in) long; the seventh a shibuichi manju, inlaid with two courtiers and a servant, 3cm (1 3/16in) diam.; the walnut shell carving depicting blind men with a tiger and dragon, 3.7cm (1 7/16in) high; the miniature single-case inro with a gilt metal sheath, engraved with butterflies, 2.2cm (7/8in) high. (9).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

TWO WOOD NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThe first a large chestnut with a flowering chrysanthemum, unsigned, 4.1cm (1 5/8in); the second a persimmon filled inside with pieces of charcoal, the charcoal of ebony, unsigned, 3.3cm (1 5/16in). (2).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

FOUR WOOD FIGURE NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThe first an oni (demon) soliciting funds for a temple, holding an account book in one hand, unsigned, 6.2cm (2 7/16in) high; the second a standing old man with his head covered, 5cm (2in) high; the third Yojo (Chinese: Yu Rang) seated, stabbing the robe of his rival Cho Bujutsu (Zhao Wuxu), signed Minko with a kao, 3.8cm (1½in) long; the fourth a man in mid-step, carrying a peach and flowers in his robe, 6.6cm (2 9/16in) high. (4).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

SEVEN MISCELLANEOUS KODOGU (SWORD FITTINGS)Edo period (1615-1868), 18th to 19th centuryThe first five fuchigashira (sets of hilt collar and pommel); the first with the two components joined with pitch, shakudo nanako ground with lilies in inlay of gold and silver; the second shakudo nanako and gold in Mino style, with autumn plants and insects; the third shakudo nanako and gold, with shishi (Chinese mythical lions); the fourth copper, gold, and shakudo, the kashira in the form of a spotted toad, the fuchi with a large toad to one side; the fifth copper, inlaid in gold, silver, and shakudo with a sleeping Emperor Jinmu on the fuchi dreaming of the deity Takemikazuchi bringing down a sword on the kashira; the sixth a plate from a kagamibuta netsuke, gilt metal, shakudo, and copper, chiselled and pierced with a pair of uzura (quails) and heads of kibi (millet); the seventh a netsuke in the form of a miniature pistol, wood, iron, gold, silver, and brass. (11).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

FOUR MASK NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThree of wood, one of lacquered wood; the first wood, an Okina (Old Man) mask, signed Isshusen, 4.2cm (1 5/8in) high; the second wood, a Hannya (Female Demon) mask, the eyes inlaid in copper, unsigned, 5.1cm (2in) high; the third wood, a mask of an old man, signed Deme Masahide, 5.3cm (2 1/16in) high; the fourth lacquered wood, an oni (demon), 3.7cm (1 7/16in) high. (4).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

SIX WOOD FIGURE NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThe first a crouched Sanbaso dancer, the mask inlaid, signed Minsetsu, 2.6cm (1 1/16in) long; the second a Chinese sage with a crane, signed Shodai, 4.1cm (1 5/8in) high; the third a Chinese man seated and holding a lotus pod, unsigned, 3.6cm (1 7/16in) long; the fourth a boy seated on a large ox as his father holds the halter, signed Keisai, 4cm (1 9/16in); the fifth a seated man gripping a mortar, pounding mochi (rice cakes), signed Gyokko, 3.8cm (1½in); the sixth a seated monk, bearing a smug expression, details inlaid, unsigned, 2.9cm (1 1/8in). (6).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

FIVE ASSORTED MASK NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 18th to 19th centuryAll unsigned unless otherwise stated; the first wood, a shishi (Chinese mythical lion) mask, with a hinged moveable jaw, the eyes inlaid, 4.6cm (1 13/16in) long; the second wood, a Hannya (Female Demon) mask, signed Shugetsu saku with a seal, 4.8cm (1 7/8in) high; the third wood, a shishi mask, lacquered red, gold, and black, 6.5cm (2½in) long; the fourth a bronze, gilt, and lacquered wood oni (demon) mask, the eyes inlaid in gilt with dark pupils, 4cm (1 9/16in) high; the fifth shibuichi and wood, an Okina (Old Man) mask, 7cm (2¾in) high. (5).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

TWO TALL WOOD NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868), late 18th to mid-19th centuryThe first a long-legged South Sea Islander standing, one hand held above his head while the other holds a drumstick, a small drum slung at his waist, unsigned, 12.5cm (4 15/16in) high; the second a boatman calling out, holding a pipe with one hand, his paddle leaning against his leg, the eyes inlaid, unsigned, 9.5cm (3¾in) high. (2).Footnotes:Provenance:Purchased in these Rooms, 6 November 2014, lot 73.A Scottish private collection.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

FIVE WOOD ANIMAL NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868) to Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryAll unsigned unless otherwise stated; the first a recumbent deer, turning back, 4cm (1 9/16in) long; the second a seated monkey clasping an oversized partially peeled mikan (orange), the eyes inlaid, signed Minko, 3.3cm (1 5/16in) high; the third a stylised squat sparrow, its back carved with diaper patterns, 3.7cm (1 7/16in) long; the fourth a seated monkey grasping a peach and branch, 3.4cm (1 5/16in) high; the fifth a yama-inu (wild dog) biting into a skull, the eyes inlaid, signed Ichibun, 3.6cm (1 3/8in) long. (5).This lot is subject to the following lot symbols: ** VAT on imported items at a preferential rate of 5% on Hammer Price and the prevailing rate on Buyer's Premium.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

A WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPABy Suketada, Takayama, Hida Province, Edo period (1615-1868), mid-19th centuryThe kappa standing on a large clam, attempting to extricate one foot caught in the shell, the eyes inlaid; signed on the underside Suketada. 3.6cm (1 7/16in) long.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

A LACQUERED-WOOD NETSUKE OF THE 'CLAM'S DREAM'Edo period (1615-1868) or Meiji era (1868-1912), 19th centuryThe clam lacquered silver with bands of various geometric patterns on the shell, slightly opening to reveal a scene of figures in the precincts of a castle; possibly signed in an indistinct seal. 5cm (1 15/16in) long.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com

THREE WOOD NETSUKEEdo period (1615-1868), 19th centuryThe first the Chinese hero Yojo (Chinese: Yu Rang) seated, stabbing the robe of his rival Cho Bujutsu (Zhao Wuxu), the eyes inlaid; signed on a silver tablet Masayoshi, 3.6cm (1 7/16in) long; the second an awabi (abalone), the textured shell exterior contrasting with smooth flesh beneath, signed on a raised rectangular reserve Shigemasa, 4.2cm (1 11/16in); the third the Chinese hero Hankai (Fan Kuai) lunging forward, carrying a door, signed Hidekazu, 4.4cm (1¾in) high. (3).Footnotes:Provenance:Edward Wrangham Collection.Purchased in these Rooms, 15 May 2012, lots 101 (the first) and 103 (the second and third).A Scottish private collection.For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com