Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono
AUCTION Saturday, November 2nd 2019
Lot 253(FrontCover), Lot327 WONDERS OF STAG ANTLER
AUCTION Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono
Saturday, November 2nd 2019, at 1:00pm CET C ATALOG NE1119
VIEWING www.zacke.at IN OUR GALLERY PREVIEW VIENNA: 7.10.2019 - 20.10.2019 and 30.10.2019 - 2.11.2019 Monday - Friday 10am - 6pm Day of the sale: 10am - 1pm and by appointment HIGHLIGHTS PREVIEW PARIS (INS CONVENTION): 25.10.2019 - 28.10.2019
GALERIE ZACKE MARIAHILFERSTRASSE 112 1070 VIENNA AUSTRIA
Tel +43 1 532 04 52 Fax +20 E-mail [email protected] IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABSENTEE BIDDING FORM FOR THE AUCTION Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono NE1119 ON DATE NOVEMBER 2ND 2019, AT 1:00PM CET
According to the general terms and conditions of business of Gal- erie Zacke Vienna, Founded 1968, SZA Versteigerungs & Vertriebs LOT NR. LOT TITLE %Ζ'Ζ1(852 GmbH, 1070 Wien, online at www.zacke.at
ABSENTEE BIDDING Absentee bids are carried out under the regulations of the terms of company if it does not expressively receive the purchaser´s writ- business of Galerie Zacke, SZA Versteigerungs & Vertriebs GmbH, ten denial of this service. Payments due to the company under the which requires written submission of your purchase limit. insurance contract will be charged to the customer. The company Orders without purchase limits cannot be processed. is also entitled to assign claims under the insurance contract to Only the submitted lot number of the auction lot is binding for the the customer providing the terms of the insurance contract do not processing of the absentee bid. The place of jurisdiction is Vienna, prevent this. 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IMPORTANT NOTICE: MY PHONE NUMBER Mail: Galerie Zacke, Mariahilferstrasse 112, Stiege 1, 2. Stock, In illustrations, printed colors do not correspond exactly to the %LGVGRQRWLQFOXGHEX\HUvVSUHPLXPDQGRU9$7 1070 Wien, Austria, Europe originals. The printed catalogue images are not representative for the condition of the illustrated pieces. Flaws and damages are TELEPHONE BIDS: WE ACCEPT THE FOLLOWING METHODS OF PAYMENTS: therefore always indicated in the catalogue. The illustrations in the ΖI\RXOLNHWRELGE\WHOHSKRQHSOHDVHVWDWHȆ7(/ȇLQWKHȆ%Ζ'Ζ1(852ȇFROXPQLQVWHDGRID(XURDPRXQW*DOHULH=DFNHZLOOFDOO\RXRQWKHGD\ ȏ&DVK online catalogue can be strongly magnified, so that damages and of the auction, on the telephone number provided, 5 lots before the lot you are bidding on and the bidding will commence at the starting ȏ&HUWLILHGRUSHUVRQDOFKHFN restorations are usually well recognizable. price, as stated in the catalog. If Galerie Zacke cannot reach you during the auction, Galerie Zacke will bid up to the estimate on your behalf. ȏ%DQNWUDQVIHU SOHDVHLQTXLUHWRUHFHLYH our bank account information) ENDANGERED SPECIES / CITES INFORMATION ȏ&UHGLWFDUG 9LVD0DVWHU&DUG$PH['LQHUV&OXE Many items in this catalogue may consist of material such as for ex- TERMS OF PAYMENT, SHIPPING AND COLLECTION: ample ivory, rhinoceros-horn, tortoise shell, coral or any rare types TELEPHONE BIDDING of tropical wood, and are therefore subject to the Convention on NAME EMAIL It is generally possible to bid by telephone during the auction. Please International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora fill out the absentee bidding form enclosed in this catalogue and in- [CITES]. Such items may only be exported outside the European clude your telephone number at which you can be reached during Union after an export permit in accordance with CITES has been ADRESS the auction. 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LOT NR. LOT TITLE %Ζ'Ζ1(852
HOW TO FIND US ON MARIAHILFERSTRASSE: Apollogasse West- bahnhof BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: U3 Neubaugürtel GALERIE 2-3 minutes from the U3 station ZIEGLERGASSE U6 Kaiserstraße ZACKE
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Further images of all lots at: www.zacke.at TERMS OF AUCTION CONTENT
§ 1) The auction shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the rules of procedure of § 11) If a customer is not able to participate in an auction personally, the company shall accept pur- GALERIE ZACKE ©, SZA VERSTEIGERUNGS UND VERTRIEBS GMBH, MARIAHILFERSTRASSE 112, 1070 chase orders. These orders may be placed in writing, via email or fax. In the case of a purchase order Preface...... 8 WIEN (hereinafter referred to as the company) as well as in accordance with sections 244-246 of the placed by phone or orally, the company shall reserve the right to make the performance dependent on GEWERBEORDNUNG [Industrial Code] of 1994. The auction shall be carried out on commission. The a confirmation from the principal communicated in writing, via email or fax. Furthermore, the company auctioneer shall be entitled to withdraw lots exceptionally, to conduct the auction deviating from the shall not be liable for the performance of purchase orders. Purchase orders with equal top bid limits will order of the catalogue numbers and to offer lots jointly. In the event of any dispute concerning a double be considered in the order of their receipt. Bids which are only one increment above the starting price bid or if the auctioneer has missed a bid, the auctioneer shall be entitled to revoke acceptance of a bid shall be exhausted totally. Bids which do not correspond to the increments determined by the company An Insight into the Gabor Wilhelm Collection Lots 1 to 88 ...... 10 and to continue auctioning the item. The figures stated in the catalogue shall be the highest bid in Euro (see bidding increment) in tabular form will be rounded up to the next higher increment. The table (€) expected by the respective expert. As a rule, the bid shall be increased by 10% of the last bid. (See of these increments can be sent upon request. In the case of lots auctioned “without any limits”, bids table of the bidding increments). below the estimated price shall be exhausted totally. The written bid (purchase order) must include the § 2) item stating the catalogue number and the offered top bid limit which is quoted as the amount of the The acceptance of a bid shall be granted to the highest bidder unless a hidden reserve has been acceptance of the bid without buyer´s commission and without value added tax. agreed upon with the consignor of the item in question. Such a hidden reserve (also called limit or just A Selection of Collections Lots 89 to 331 reserve) shall be the minimum price under which the item will not be sold during the auction. This Ambiguities shall be carried by the bidder. A purchase order which has already been placed may reserve will be disclosed upon request only and may exceed the estimate. The auctioneer will in this only be cancelled if the written withdrawal is received by the company at least 72 hours prior to case bid on behalf of the seller against all other bidders until the reserve has been reached. If a reserve the beginning of the auction. Animals of the Japanese Zodiac Lots 89 - 147 ...... 76 is not reached during the auction, the auctioneer will knock down the item to the highest bidder at the § 12) final bid, but the sale will be conditional of the acceptance of this final bid by the seller. In this case The company may refuse to process a purchase order without explanation until offering the highest bidder shall be bound to his/her last bid for a term of 8 days starting with the day of the or make this dependent on payment of a deposit. In the event of an unsuccessful order, such a Sennin, Chinese Influence & Immortals Lots 148 - 163 ...... 129 knockdown. If the winning bidder does not receive a written cancellation notice within this term of 8 deposit will be reimbursed by the company within 5 working days. Processing of purchase orders is free of charge. days, the knockdown becomes unconditional and the sale is final. Typically, only a minority of all items Gods & Religion Lots 164 - 184 ...... 140 in an auction have a hidden reserve. § 13) Every contributor shall in principle be entitled to withdraw the items offered for auction § 3) All items shall be subject to differential taxation. A uniform surcharge of 26.4% inclusive the until the start of the auction. Therefore, it is impossible to assume liability or to give warranty for Folklore & Scenes from Daily Life Lots 185 - 210 ...... 154 value added tax shall be added to the achieved highest bid (final and highest bid). For online bids the actual offering. an additional 5 % will be charged. § 14) Items paid must be collected within 30 days of payment. Items which have not been collected Animals other than the Zodiac Lots 211 - 230 ...... 171 § 4) In the event of sales abroad, the value added tax will be repaid if the item is sold to a country which may be delivered without further communication at a starting price from the recent auction re- duced by 50% after 30 days from the respective auction date. Items which have not been collected is not a member country of the European Union (third country), the legal requirements are met, and Mythical Beings – Fantastic Creatures of Divine Creation Lots 231 - 247...... 186 the proof of exportation is provided. The value added tax shall not be shown separately on the invoice. within 3 (three) working days after the auction or for which the company does not receive any proper shipping instructions stating the type of shipping and the address of dispatch (independent § 5) The auction buyer must pay the purchase price immediately upon acceptance of the bid (final and of a possibly placed purchase order) within 3 (three) working days after the auction shall be stored Wonders of Stag Antler & Asakusa School Lots 248 - 264 ...... 203 highest bid plus 22% surcharge, plus the value added tax applicable to the surcharge to the amount of at the owner´s risk. 20%). However, the company may grant the auction buyer a respite for the payment of the purchase Fine Kagamibuta – Metalworkers Entering the New Age Lots 265 - 269 ...... 217 price in whole or in part in individual cases. If a respite is refused, the acceptance of the bid may be Furthermore, the company shell be entitled to store item which have been purchased at auction revoked, and the item may be reoffered. In the event of revocation of the acceptance of the bid, the and paid but not collected at the buyer´s risk and expense, including the costs for an insurance, company shall be entitled to accept the last bid from the underbidder. with a forwarding agency. It shall be understood that the provision concerning the re-auctioning Lacquer Netsuke Lots 270 - 276 ...... 220 of unpaid and paid but not collected items must also apply to items not exhibited or stored on the § 6) In the event of respite in whole or in part, the company shall be entitled to charge default interest premises of the company. The ownership shall be transferred the buyer at the time of handing (12% p.a.) as well as storage charges (2.4% pf the final and highest bid per month commenced) after over the delivery note. Masks Lots 277 - 302 ...... 224 14 days upon acceptance of the bid. The item purchased at auction shall be handed over exclusively § 15) upon full payment of the purchase price including all costs and charges accrued since the acceptance In the case of mixed lots with a starting price of less than EUR 350.00, the company shall not Contemporary Netsuke Lots 303 - 312 ...... 240 of the bid. warrant for the completeness or correctness of the individual items within a mixed lot. § 16) § 7) The buyer can take acquired items in possession, as far as possible, immediately or after the end A registration for a bid by telephone for one or several items shall automatically represent Inro Lots 313 - 320 ...... 248 of the auction. Items which have been fully paid for shall be handed over in our show rooms in GALERIE a bid at the starting prices for these items. If the company cannot reach the bidder by telephone, ZACKE, MAIAHILFERSTRASSE 112, 1070 VIENNA. If a deferred purchase price is not paid within the set it will bid on behalf of the bidder by phone up to the starting price when the respective auction Sagemono Lots 321 - 325 ...... 255 period, the company shall be entitled to auction the item again in order to recoup its claim from the lot is called. defaulting auction buyer. In this case, the defaulting auction buyer shall be liable to the company for § 17) Payments made to the company by mistake (through the payer´s fault) (e.g. due to miscal- Okimono Lots 326 - 331 ...... 259 the total loss of commission incurred by the company due to the re-auctioning as well as for any default culation of the exchange rate by the payer) or payments made to the company for the same invoice interest and storage charges. several times shall be compensated in form of a credit note for goods for an indefinite period of § 8) The company shall be entitled to a lien on all items of the buyer irrespective of whether the buyer time. The repayment of such payments in cash shall be excluded. bought them within the scope of an auction or in free sale or the company secured ownership of these § 18) In the case of individual auction lots, it may happen that they are delivered several times. In items otherwise. This lien shall serve to secure all current and future, qualified, limited and unmatured such a case, the auctioneer may accept a second or third etc. bid from the underbidder(s) In this Signature Index ...... 266 claims to which the company is entitled and which result from all legal transactions concluded with case, the text om the catalogue and not the illustration in the catalogue shall also be exclusively the buyer. binding with regard to the warranty (relating to these auction lots). § 9) The items received for auction will be exhibited and may be viewed prior to the auction. 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The company, the sellers and the buyers § 10) shall agree to settle all disputes resulting from, concerning and in connection with this contract The company’s experts evaluate and describe the items received for auction and determine the before the territorially competent court of Vienna. starting prices uncles otherwise stated in the catalogue or expert opinion. The information concerning production technique or material, state of preservation, origin, design and age3 of an item is based on § 21) The export of art objects from Austria, when indicated, shall require a permit from the published or otherwise generally accessible (scientific) findings concluded by the company’s expert with Bundesdenkmalamt [Federal Monuments Office]. In any event, the company shall orally provide the necessary care and accuracy. The company shall warrant to the buyer according to §22 of the AGB information about art objects for which an export permit will probably not be granted at the begin- (General Terms and Conditions) that properties are correct provided that any possible complaints refer- ning of the auction. ring to this are made within four weeks upon their taking into possession. Subsequent complaints shall be excluded in principle. The company shall not be liable for any further information in the catalogue § 22) The company reserves the right to assign to the customer all rights and obligations resulting and expert opinion as well. This shall also apply to illustrations in the catalogue. The purpose of these from the contractual relationship between the company and the contributor by a way of a respec- illustrations is to guide the potential buyer during the preview. They shall not be authoritative for the tive declaration, as well to assign to the contributor all rights and obligations resulting from the condition or the characteristics of the pictured item. The catalogue and the expert opinions shall only contractual relationship between the company and the customer by way of a respective declara- mention defects and damage affecting the artistic or commercial value significantly. Complaints concern- tion, in each case in terms of a complete assignment of contract with the result that the contractual ing the price shall be excluded upon acceptance of the bid. The company reserves the right to amend relationship-following the submission of the aforementioned declarations by the company – shall catalogue information prior to the auction. These amendments shall be made either by a written notice exclusively be between the contributor and the customer, which is in accordance with the basic at the place of auction or orally by the auctioneer immediately prior to offering of the respective item. In model of the commission agreement. Customers and contributors shall already now give their ex- this case, the company shall be liable for the amendment only. All items offered may be checked prior plicit consent to this contract assignment. to the auction. These items are used. Any claims for damages exceeding the liability named above and resulting from other material defects or other defects of the item shall be excluded. When making the bid, the bidder confirms that it has seen the item prior to the auction and has made sure that the item corresponds to the description. An Insight into the Dear Collectors of Netsuke Art! Gabor Wilhelm Collection Lots 1 to 88
In our third netsuke sale in one year, we are proud to present to you a varied catalog full of netsuke and related objects! This time we have split the catalog into two sections. The catalog starts off, guns-a- blazing, with ‘An Insight Into The Gabor Wilhelm Collection’, consisting of 88 lots. The remainder of the catalog is made up of property from various collections – this section is titled ‘A Selection of Collections’, and is curated in our usual manner, showing the variety of subject matter in the repertoire of our beloved netsukeshi.
AN INSIGHT INTO THE GABOR WILHELM COLLECTION
Gabor Wilhelm, now 93, has been a collector of netsuke for almost 50 years (!). He has published and contributed to many publications, and has written countless articles for the International Netsuke Society – the most well-known and loved amongst journal enthusiasts is surely ‘On the continent’, where Gabor reported on the various sales in Europe, with knowledge and most importantly wit, which we have come to cherish. Exactly this wit and humor is present in this selection of 88 pieces from his large collection.
$IWHUEHLQJHQWUXVWHGZLWKWKLVVDOHΖKDYHYLVLWHG*DERUWZLF$IWHU EHLQ HLQ3DULV%RWKWLPHV wewe sat dodownw at his clothed table and viewed piece by piece from his collection, eacheach one came with a little anecdote, a hidden meaning, a humorous twist! In fact, eacheach nnetsuke in this sale came with a short description. Lot 23 came with a note ‘two elephants in high spirits telling jokes’. Perhaps this little note sums it upup bbest – not only was the humor intended by the artist important, but aalsolso thethe humor one sees inn it – the jjoyoy of collectincollecting!g! Gabor Wilhelm was alwaalwaysys aac collectorc of modest means, and thouthoughgh his collection is nothinnothingg short ooff masterpieces,masterpieces, there areare different ‘guiding‘guiding lines’ which formed his collection. PiecesPieces exhibitingexhibiting weawear,r, where you can see that theythey hhaveave bbeeneen llovedoved bbyy generations, are prominent.i t Furthermore,F th anythingthi curious, unusual or enienigmaticgmatic would be a likelylikely cancandidate.didate. I hhopeope to bbringring tthehe cclosenessloseness wwhichhich I hhaveave enenjoyedjoyed to tthishis collectioncollection nearer to you in this introduction and the ffollowingollowing catalocatalog.g.
A SSELECTIONELECTION OOFF CCOLLECTIONSOLLECTIONS
This is our pick ffromrom various collectiocollectionsns throughout Europe,Europe, and we have splitsplit this sectiosectionn into thirteen further categories,categories, as detailed in the table of contents. This selection beginsbegins with a strostrongng Zodiac with exaexamplesmpm les ffromrom netsukeshi across the schools of JapanJapan – Kyoto,Kyoto, Tanba, Tsu, NaNagoyagoya – to name a ffew.ew. In the middle we have twot very special categories Ȃ0\WKLFDO%HLQJVIHDWXULQJDVSHFWDFXODUΖZDPL.LULQ ORW Ȃ 0\WKLFDO %HLQJV IHDWXULQJ D VSHFWDFXODU ΖZDPL .LULQ ORW and Wonders ooff Stag antler and AsaAsakusakusa school, ffeaturingeaturing our ttitleitle ppieceiece (lot 253). A strongstrong finish is pprovidedrovided bbyy our selection of okimono, notablnotablyy the massive okiokimonomono ooff an eaeaglegle with two ffoxesoxes (lot 327) and the beautifulbeautiful sleesleepingping ladladyy (lot 331). For our ccontemporaryontemporary collectors we have a closelyclosely curated and fine sselectionelection ooff pieces ffromrom contemporacontemporaryry masters across the world, pparticularlyarticularly interestinginteresting is thethe jjuxtapositionuxtaposition of ththee gghostshosts by JapJapaneseanese artist HiHideyukideyuki anandd AustrianAustrian-born-b- orn Georges WeiWeill (lots 308 and 30309).9).
FForor our scscholarsholars we hhaveave incincludedluded a sigsignaturenature inindexdex anandd image rereproductionsproductions of all sisignaturesgnatures ((pagespages 226666 – 272).
We hohopepe yyouou will enenjoyjoy browsinbrowsingg throthroughugu h our catalocatalog,g, and for ananyy quequestionsstions we remain aatt yyourour didisposal!sposal! OOff course, as always, ffurtherurther imaimagesges of each lot are available online at www.zacke.at.
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8 9 3 | AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A NAKED MAN SLEEPING ON A BAG
1 | AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE Unsigned OF TWO CHINESE WRESTLERS Japan, mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Unsigned Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A compact and beautifully rounded ivory netsuke with superb aji (patina). Depicted is a naked man, his supple smooth buttocks shown in the back, leaning on one elbow and sleeping atop a large Set on a large, thick rectangular base and surmounted by two tied bag. In one hand he holds the rope which ties up the bag. The Chinese wrestlers grabbing and pulling at each other. Their faces subject matter is unclear; Gabor Wilhelm suggests he is guarding are crafted with good detail, conveying the struggle very well. Large his money (this type of bag is typically associated with Hotei’s himotoshi through the base. Excellent and smooth orange honey WUHDVXUH %HDXWLIXOO\ZRUQIHDWXUHVKRQH\SDWLQDDQGW\SLFDOO\ patina throughout. large, generous himotoshi through the back and underside.
HEIGHT 5.4 cm HEIGHT 3.8 cm
Condition: Very good condition, with beautiful patina and expected Condition: Good and worn condition with beautiful patina. Small, age cracks. old chip to the edge of the rope. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.000,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 500,- Starting price EUR 400,-
2 | A RARE AND EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF RIHAKU
Unsigned Japan, early to mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
$QHDUO\LYRU\QHWVXNHRIWKHSRHW5LKDNX LQ&KLQHVH/L%DL VKRZQ seated on a base leaning on a scholarly table. He is wearing a traditional Chinese cap and a flowing, well-carved Chinese robe. His facial features are crafted extraordinarily well indicating his happy mood, probably after drinking some wine – a popular subject of KLVSRHPV%HDXWLIXOGHHS\HOORZDQGKRQH\SDWLQDDQGH[FHOOHQW himotoshi through the under- and backside of the rectangular base.
This netsuke belongs to a group of early ivory netsuke set on bases (catalog nos. 1-4), though usually the details are not as refined as in the present example, making this carving exceptionally rare. 4 | AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF A CHINESE MAN SLEEPING ON AN OPIUM BED HEIGHT 4.3 cm Unsigned Condition: Very good age-related condition with expected age Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) cracks and stunning patina. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Depicting a Chinese man dressed in Chinese clothes and sleeping, /LWHUDWXUHFRPSDULVRQ &RPSDUHWR%DUU\'DYLHV7KH5REHUW6 with his head rested on a pillow, on a traditional Chinese opium +XWKDUW&ROOHFWLRQRI1RQΖZDPL1HWVXNHQR %DUU\'DYLHVGDWHV bed of Kang form. Set on a base, with large central himotoshi this piece late 17th/early 18th century. through the underside. The man is in a deep slumber, smiling and visibly inebriated from the opium smoke. /L%DL Ȃ ZDVDIDPRXVSRHWGXULQJWKH7DQJG\QDVW\RIWHQ referred to as China’s golden age of poetry. In 724 AD he set out HEIGHT 4.3 cm from his home region of Shu and began a life of roaming— visiting Daoist sites, meeting many scholars, and leaving behind hundreds Condition: Good condition with appealing patina and many of poems about his travels, his solitude, his friends, the moon, and expected age cracks. especially the pleasures of drinking wine. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 400,-
10 11 7 | A LARGE AND EARLY WOOD NETSUKE OF A CHINESE COURT OFFICIAL
Unsigned Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
A very large wood netsuke of a standing Chinese court official with a beautiful patina. The man is wearing a large courtly hat, holding a fan and leaning on a long stick, which extends almost to the top of his hat. His facial features are worn, though still recognizable and show a deeply focused expression. His robe is detailed showing many deep and accentuated folds. The large himotoshi are angular and found on the backside and side, showing significant wear. 5 | A GOOD IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEI 6 | A LARGE AND UNUSUAL A functional netsuke, large but not too heavy WOOD NETSUKE OF DAIKOKU and significantly worn with a beautiful patina, Unsigned showing that this was a well-loved and used Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned netsuke. Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) HEIGHT 13 cm The lucky god Hotei is seated, pot-bellied, with a shiny bald head and typically large earlobes, indicating his enlightenment. His Depicting the god of wealth and patron of the merchants Daikoku, Condition: Very good age-related condition. robe is finely carved with accentuated garment folds and he has with large earlobes, smiling, wearing his typical hat and holding his The wood is worn and shows a good patina, one hand rested on his knee, with the other flat on the ground mallet up high. The reverse shows a scoop-like structure, the inside with minor old smooth chips to the edge of supporting himself, visible on the underside. The decorations on partially with remains of old black lacquer and a central bridge the robe, minor scratches, cracks and nicks. his robe are worn, but still visible and finely executed. Hotei has a where the himotoshi is located. A rustic, old and very functional Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. quite amusing expression – it looks as if he was struggling to smile wood netsuke with worn-down features and a beautiful aji (patina) DQGKLVPLQXWHO\FDUYHGWHHWKDUHYLVLEOH%HDXWLIXOKRQH\SDWLQD from many years of use and handling. The shape of the netsuke Estimate EUR 1.500,- wear consistent with age and coherent large himotoshi through the probably depicts a kind of wall hanging used to dispel oni from Starting price EUR 750,- under- and backside. temple sites.
HEIGHT 4.5 cm HEIGHT 6.2 cm, LENGTH 4.4 cm, WIDTH 3 cm
Condition: Very good condition with beautiful patina, coherent wear Condition: Good condition with signs of age and wear. Possibly one and expected age cracks. very old and worn-down chip to the upper edge of the backside. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 500,-
12 13 8 | AN EXCELLENT TALL IVORY NETSUKE 9 | A RARE 17TH CENTURY OF ASHINAGA AND TENAGA DRIFTWOOD NETSUKE OF A LARGE FISH Unsigned Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 17th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A tall ivory netsuke of Ashinaga (long legs) and Tenaga (long arms). The pair from the Kyushu islands work together as fishermen. Ashinaga is standing in the water supporting Tenaga on his back A netsuke made from natural while he pulls out a well-carved seabream with his long arms - a flattened driftwood in the shape of a remarkable feat of complimenting strengths. Amusingly, the two large stylized fish. Only the eyes and are struggling with their ‘normal limbs’ as Ashinaga barely can area around the mouth are carved, hold Tenaga with his stumpy arms, while the latter is struggling to the rest has remained as it was support himself with his short legs. This strain is evident in their found, only altered by centuries of expressions. The eyes are inlaid and glaring, the ivory is smooth and use and handling, giving it a beautiful is pleasing to the touch with spots of honey patina. The backside, aji (patina). It is well documented that with excellent himotoshi, is covered in a beautiful shimmering the earliest netsuke were basically honey patina. any objects which would be suitable as sagemono, like natural gourds HEIGHT 11.4 cm or pieces of wood, etc. The present netsuke belongs to this rare group of Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks and very the earliest netsuke known to man. appealing patina. Minor losses to the inlay of the eyes of Tenaga. An agate ojime is attached to the Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. cord which is attached to the natural himotoshi through the mouth. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- LENGTH 16 cm
Condition: Excellent condition worn over centuries of use and handling. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,-
10 | A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF AN OCTOPUS
Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
The octopus (tako) is crafted with a large and smooth bulbous head with elongated bulging eyes, his head resting on his tentacles which extend far behind him. The tentacles have pierced holes for suckers and form a dense bundle, overlapping and curling around. The composition of this octopus is quite unique. The underside with himotoshi through one S-shaped tentacle. Excellent patina, worn in all the right places.
LENGTH 6.5 cm
Condition: Very good complete condition, with expected age cracks and beautiful patina. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,-
14 15 12 | A FINELY STAINED WALRUS IVORY TWO-PART MANJU NETSUKE OF A CRAB
Unsigned Japan, Osaka, early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
A walrus ivory netsuke stained immaculately in Osaka style, not far from the skill of Mitsuhiro. The netsuke consists of two parts, the top section shows the crab (kani) with eyes and pincers. The base shows the underside of the carapace - the eight legs are carved with an incredible sense of realism. The cord channel on the underside is ringed in silver and the inside shows a central peg for himotoshi. Interestingly, a wooden peg is fitted on the side, so that the netsuke could also be used as a pill box. The inside is stained deep red. Netsuke of crabs are incredibly rare.
DIAMETER 3.1 cm
Condition: Very good condition. There are a few tiny scratches on the inside of the upper part. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,-
11 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF AN OCTOPUS INSIDE A MORTAR
Unsigned Japan, probably Osaka, early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
The octopus (tako) shown with a pronounced head and bundled tentacles, starkly contrasting to the finely ribbed surface of the concave mortar (suribachi). The underside of the mortar is smooth, with a fine honey-patina and intentionally carved cracks, showing the age of the mortar which has been lying on the seabed offering a home to the octopus. Irregular oval and circular himotoshi.
DIAMETER 4 cm
Condition: Very good condition, the pupils of the octopus are possibly lost. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
The tako is also called the physician of the sea and the suribachi was used to grind herbs and medicine – therefore this netsuke serves as a charm of good health.
Auction comparison: Compare to an almost identical netsuke sold at Van Ham, Asiatische Kunst, 8 December 2016, Cologne, lot 2453.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,-
16 17 14 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI ROLLED INTO A BALL
Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An ivory netsuke of perfectly rounded form depicting a shishi holding a brocade ball firmly between its paws – even its tail supports the ball, so it doesn’t roll away. The shishi has an amusingly playful expression with inlaid eyes rolling towards each other and the mouth wide-opened, with a loose ball inside, showing its teeth and rolled up tongue. The lion dog has floppy ears, bushy curls and a flowing mane – all wonderfully carved. Natural himotoshi through the mouth and an old drilled hole on the underside, so it could be mounted on a cane. The composition is an accomplished counterpart to the famous Masanao rat.
HEIGHT 3.4 cm
Condition: Good and complete condition. Some wear to the drilled hole on the underside. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,-
13 | A FINE AND RARE IVORY ASHTRAY NETSUKE WITH DRAGON
Unsigned 15 | A RARE IVORY RYUSA Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) MANJU NETSUKE WITH MANY BATS
Carved as a bowl decorated in high relief Signed with an image of a scaly, roaring celestial Japan, late 19th century dragon (tatsu) amidst beautifully carved swirling clouds. The bowl has an elegant shape and functions as an ashtray netsuke. Finely carved in openwork with many The central himotoshi is surrounded by bats, nine to be exact, depicted in various concentric swirls and the crisply carved claws attitudes, some of them with inlaid eyes of the dragon. Ashtray netsuke were often of dark horn. The bat is a symbol for luck, quite simple objects of daily use, and rarely longevity and prosperity, often used to carved to this detail. decorated wedding presents. Many openings possible for himotoshi. Signature in an oval DIAMETER 4.2 cm reserve, however illegible.
Condition: The peg that was fitted inside LENGTH 4.6 cm the himotoshi is lost. Otherwise very good condition with an attractive, fine patina. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 600,-
18 19 16 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RETRACTED TORTOISE 18 | A KUROGAKI WOOD NETSUKE OF AN OX
Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
This early netsuke depicts a tortoise with its head, legs and tail An early netsuke carved from kurogaki wood (black persimmon) completely retracted inside its carapace. The surface has a very depicting an ox with a raised head. The material is a beautiful appealing patina and is smooth to the touch from centuries of shimmering black with a dark brown area. Large himotoshi through handling. Ideally compact shape. Good and well-hollowed out the side and underside. himotoshi through the underside. LENGTH 5.1 cm HEIGHT 4.2 cm Condition: Very good and complete condition with faint cracks Condition: Very good condition with excellent patina. Old crack on typical for the material. the underside. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 600,-
19 | AN EARLY EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A WELL-FED CAT ON A BASE 17 | A RARE AND ELEGANT WOOD NETSUKE OF A CRANE Unsigned Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An early kokutan (ebony) wood netsuke depicting a bulky cat (neko) reclining on a rectangular base. The cat has full cheeks, an arched A wood netsuke of a slightly stylized crane, with more consideration back and a tail which curls around its body. It has slits for eyes and given to the elegant shape than to pure naturalism. The long neck an amusingly satisfied expression, probably it has just finished a of the crane is curved with its beak touching its bulbous body. hearty meal. It is wearing a collar around its neck, which identifies The long-beaked bird shows neatly incised feathers to the tip of the cat as a spoiled house cat, which further explains its physical WKHZLQJVDQGWDLO WKHUHVWRIWKHERG\OHIWSODLQ%HDXWLIXOSDWLQD well-being. Large himotoshi through the base. smooth to the touch, and coherent irregular himotoshi through the underside. HEIGHT 4 cm
HEIGHT 3.9 cm Condition: Good condition with wear and associated cracks. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Condition: Very good and complete condition; the wood shows signs of age and wear. Cats are feared by Taoists who regard it as a demon who has taken Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. the place of an old woman.
Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 600,-
20 21 21 | A CHARMING MARINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT HOLDING ITS TAIL
Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
A marine ivory netsuke of a small chubby rat with big bulging eyes inlaid in lustrous deep-black horn. The round ears are curiously raised. The well-carved tail on the underside, which the rat firmly holds with its large paws in front of it, curls around forming a loop in front of the rat. Deep and large himotoshi on the underside; beautiful shimmering yellow patina.
LENGTH 4.3 cm
Condition: Very good and complete condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
The rat (nezumi) is the first animal in the zodiac and a symbol of wealth, as when there was plenty of food there would be plenty of rats – therefore the rat is also the companion of Daikoku, patron of the merchants and god of wealth.
Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,-
20 | OKATORI: A RARE AND EXCELLENT EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A HUNGRY RAT
%\2NDWRULVLJQHG2NDWRUL Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Carved from a sublime piece of ebony wood with red hues and depicting a seated rat nibbling at a fruit. The fur is minutely incised and smoothly polished from centuries of handling. The rodent has a charming expression with slightly raised ears, large eyes inlaid in lustrous black horn and a well-carved tail which curls around underneath the rat, the right paw grasping the tail tightly, forming the himotoshi. The image of the feeding, hungry rat is masterfully achieved. Signed in a rectangular reserve OKATORI ᛂ籃.
HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 4.4 cm
&RQGLWLRQ 9HU\JRRGZRUQFRQGLWLRQ%RWKHDUVZLWKYHU\PLQRU wear to the edges. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Okatori was an important member of the Kyoto school and brother to Yamaguchi Okatomo. Wood netsuke are very rare by the artist, and ebony netsuke even rarer.
Auction comparison: For another rat by Okatori in ivory see %RQKDPV7KH-XOLXVDQG$UOHWWH.DWFKHQ&ROOHFWLRQRI)LQH1HWVXNH Part II, 10 May 2017, London, lot 48. For a dark wood study of rat by Okatomo see The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part III, 6 November 2018, London, lot 36.
Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,-
22 23 22 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A 24 | AN EARLY IVORY NETSUKE SHAGGY DOG ON A ZABUTON OF A WOLF WITH HAUNCH
Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
This lovely netsuke shows a shaggy dog (muku inu type) on a A good old ivory netsuke depicting a hungry wolf devouring a cushion (zabuton) with its head resting on its finely carved paws. haunch of venison. The expression of the hungry wolf looks The dog has big excited eyes and long groomed fur which elegantly satisfied as it tries to rip the meat from the bone of the deer. The runs along its body. The cushion is two-layered and provides a cozy piece was probably worn by several generations as the patina place for the dog to rest on. The curvature of its body aligns with reveals the age of the netsuke showing age cracks and a deep- the circular cushion – the dog seems to have found just the right yellow worn patina, giving the piece a unique appeal. Natural position to fit fully on the pillow! The ears are big, and the body himotoshi through the feet of the wolf. language indicates a deep satisfaction. Large himotoshi on the underside with a beautiful yellow patina. LENGTH 4.6 cm, HEIGHT 3 cm
DIAMETER 3.6 cm Condition: Signs of age and wear with age cracks on one side. The other side shows a deep-yellow worn patina. Despite its age it is in Condition: Good very good and complete condition. condition. Very few Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. age cracks in the fur of the dog and on the Estimate EUR 2.000,- cushion. A tiny nick Starting price EUR 1.000,- in between the two layers of the cushion. The patina is slightly worn. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,-
23 | A RARE AND EARLY IVORY NETSUKE OF AN ELEPHANT AND BAKU
Unsigned Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An ivory netsuke set on a base surmounted by an elephant and a baku. The elephant with a typically long trunk and large ears has its head lowered and is touching the bushy tail of the other baying animal that resembles a tapir, though with tusks. It is known that WKHDSSHDUDQFHRIWKH%DNXZDVKHDYLO\LQIOXHQFHGE\WKHWDSLU which was treated in Chinese art as early as the Han-dynasty. Extraordinary patina typical for an early and well-loved piece. Central himotoshi on the underside.
HEIGHT 3 cm
Condition: Very good age-related condition with expected age cracks and stunning patina. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
The baku is known to consume nightmares and was therefore considered a talisman against bad sleep.
Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,-
24 25 26 | MASAYUKI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A BOAR SCRATCHING ITS EAR
%\0DVD\XNLVLJQHG0DVD\XNL Japan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Finely stained and carved as a boar (inoshishi) seated on a bed of autumn leaves and lifting its left hindleg to scratch its ear. The boar has an amusing expression with its head and snout turned upwards. To its side is a rock with autumn grasses extending over its back. The underside is especially well-carved with good himotoshi and signature MASAYUKI ȢDŽ.
HEIGHT 3.3 cm
Condition: Very good condition, minor expected wear. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
This Masayuki is the fifth carver mentioned in MCI, who carved mostly ivory in the style of Anraku of Osaka and often used a kakihan.
Literature comparison: Another netsuke of a boar scratching its ear XQLOOXVWUDWHGDQGH[:/%HKUHQV LVLQ)0HLQHUW]KDJHQ0&Ζ3DUW A, New York, 1986, page 496.
Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,-
27 | AN UNUSUAL IVORY NETSUKE 25 | A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RUNNING BOAR OF TWO RESTING BOARS Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
A very unusual netsuke of a running boar, specifically the surface A finely carved netsuke depicting an adult boar with young resting which is in part due to extensive handling of the piece. The surface on a bed of autumn leaves. The adult is peacefully sleeping, his left appears almost like ceramic – from the gloss of the material to front leg resting under his body. The adult boar’s expression emits the natural flaws of the ivory, appearing like firing faults, and the tranquility and is carved serenely. Unusually, the young boar seems somewhat crude, yet charming details of the carving. Perhaps to be awake, his eyes opened, and one fears he may wake the adult this is intentional and is imitating ceramic. However, the carving is up. One larger leaf and thin grasses extend up the adult’s back, ivory and shows a fat boar, galloping with a humoristic expression; worn down from centuries of handling. This is exactly what makes the eyes are inlaid with black horn. The large, used and irregular this netsuke special! The patina is superb throughout - shimmering himotoshi further illustrate that this is an early netsuke. honey orange, worn in all the right places. One can immediately see that this is a worn and well-loved netsuke. Large himotoshi through LENGTH 5 cm the underside. Condition: Good and worn condition. LENGTH 4.4 cm Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
Condition: Good worn condition with expected age cracks and Auction comparison: A Kyoto ivory netsuke of a running boar was beautiful patina. Old damage to the side of the leaf bed. VROGDW%RQKDPV)LQH1HWVXNHIURPWKH$GULHQQH%DUEDQVRQ Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Collection, 13 May 2013, London, lot 25.
Estimate EUR 3.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 500,-
26 27 29 | TOMOKAZU: AN EXCELLENT WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EATING PERSIMMONS
%\.DQR7RPRND]XVLJQHG7RPRND]X Japan, Gifu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
This exceptional wood netsuke shows a monkey (saru) right before taking a bite into a persimmon (kaki) while the fruit is still attached to an exquisitely carved branch, with further fruits, which the 28 | AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY monkey holds in front of his body between his legs. The monkey is HOLDING DOWN A FROG leaning forward holding the kaki in both of its hands and placing its teeth on it. His mouth opens wide and his lip arches over the fruit – Unsigned the resulting facial contortion is achieved masterfully. Japan, Gifu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The expression of the monkey is enhanced by glowing eyes of pale and dark horn. The wood is well-worn and smooth to the touch showing a shimmering reddish-brown tone. The underside reveals A comical wood netsuke of a monkey holding down a frog. The the male gender of the monkey. Natural himotoshi through one leg monkey is visibly amused, its inlaid ivory eyes and mouth opened and the signature TOMOKAZU ƤĂ in a rounded reserve on one of wide and tongue sticking out with great excitement. The fur is the thighs. well-carved with an unusually rough, though very appealing texture. The monkey is grabbing the frog with both of its hands and places HEIGHT 3.8 cm one foot on the poor amphibian; the other one is angled under his body. On the contrary, the frog is considerably less amused Condition: Excellent condition with a very appealing patina; one eye as the monkey puts its weight on it, effectively flattening the is replaced. frog - its visible inlaid eye looks to almost pop out of its head. The Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. struggling frog reaches with its left front limb between the monkey’s arm and leg, trying to release the pressure; its fingertips are Tomokazu from Gifu is regarded as one of the greatest animal visible underneath the monkey’s arm. The underside reveals the netsuke carvers of all time and often lived in seclusion to study the characteristic features of a frog, as the webbed hind and front feet animals very closely and sometimes took as much as one or two are visible. This netsuke is attributable to the school of Tomokazu of months to finish a carving. Gifu. Natural himotoshi. The monkey is the ninth sign of the Japanese Zodiac and used to HEIGHT 3.9 cm be considered to dispel ill will, ease births and be a messenger to the gods. Condition: Very good condition. Natural imperfection in the wood - plugged near the head of the monkey. $XFWLRQFRPSDULVRQ $QHDULGHQWLFDOQHWVXNHZDVVROGDW%RQKDPV Provenance: Sotheby’s, Art D’Asie, 18 December 2012, Paris, lot The James A. Rose Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 17 260. Afterwards, The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. September 2013, New York, lot 2019.
Estimate EUR 2.500,- Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- Starting price EUR 2.000,-
28 29 30 | A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNARLING TIGER 32 | MASAYOSHI: A TALL WOOD NETSUKE OF ONO NO Unsigned KOMACHI Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) %\0DVD\RVKLVLJQHG0DVD\RVKL Japan, early 19th century, Edo period A compact wood netsuke of a snarling tiger, quite unusual in its (1615-1868) appearance and dynamic. One paw is placed in front and the body bends around as it lets out a humorously insecure snarl. The thick tail curls around almost touching its ear. Neatly incised fur with The poetess is standing and holding a expressed tiger stripes, and the paws on the underside are very cane and tattered hat in front of her. Her well-carved. Natural himotoshi through the two right legs which are expression is very well carved, signifying tucked together. Fine patina and good color to the wood. wisdom but also showing her great age, with masterfully carved facial features and HEIGHT 3.6 cm wrinkles. She is wearing a kimono, revealing her chest and emaciated rib cage. Her long Condition: Excellent condition. hair is finely carved and tied at the back. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Another fine detail is her tattered robe, with a torn section at the bottom flowing Estimate EUR 2.000,- downwards to her feet. Large and worn Starting price EUR 1.000,- himotoshi through the backside, separated by her obi, above the signature MASAYOSHI ؈ྪ. It is evident that this netsuke was used and worn, very much fitting to this subject of the old and worn-out Komachi.
HEIGHT 9 cm
Condition: Good, worn condition. One thin age crack by the side and small nicks, adding very much to the appeal of the netsuke. The himotoshi are worn. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.
31 | MIWA: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF CHAJIN Ono no Komachi was one of the great six poets of the ninth century (also referred %\0LZDΖ Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 30 31 34 | SHOKO: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF URASHIMA TARO WITH TURTLE %\6KRNRVLJQHG6KRNR Japan, Takayama, Hida school, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, Honolulu 1982, p. 967. 33 | HIDEHISA: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A THIEF STEALING THE MAGIC TANUKI KETTLE Finely carved from wood with darkened and accentuated areas, %\+LGHKLVDVLJQHG+LGHKLVD 6KXN\X depicting Urashima Taro holding a large gourd filled with sake Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) and offering it, in a sakazuki cup, to a little turtle crawling over his shoulder. Urashima is nursing the turtle back to health with Published: Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, sake, the drink of the immortals. Very finely carved details such as Honolulu 1982, p. 458. the turtle’s carapace, Urashima’s hair, his sandals and the straw apron – surely an allusion to the minogame (straw raincoat turtle). %RWKKDYHPLQXWHO\LQODLGH\HVRIGDUNKRUQ1DWXUDOKLPRWRVKL A lightly stained, finely carved and expressive wood netsuke and signature on the underside SHOKO ֿ֟. A pupil of Matsuda GHSLFWLQJWKHOHJHQGRIWKH%XPEXNX&KDJDPD EDGJHUWHDNHWWOH Sukenaga. According to Japanese folklore a poor man sets a tanuki free, which in return transforms into a kettle, so that the man can perform with HEIGHT 4.2 cm it on the street and become wealthy. This netsuke is quite unusual, as instead of being shown happy or surprised (as usually depicted), Condition: Excellent condition, very appealing patina. the man is quite possessive of the tanuki, fiercely grabbing on to it. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. The man is a thief, who is trying to steal the magic kettle and enrich himself. The front is inscribed ‘Toyo Fuku’ (great fortune), which the According to legend Urashima Taro saved a little minogame man is trying to acquire. Angular himotoshi in the back. Signature (straw-raincoat turtle) from an ill fate, which subsequently turned on the reverse on the left leg of the thief in a wavy reserve out to be the daughter of the dragon king. The next day a giant HIDEHISA (Shukyu) ল΅. turtle appeared and brought Urashima to the underwater palace of the dragon god. Urashima stayed there for a few days and HEIGHT 4.4 cm 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 Condition: Good condition. Some plugged sections in the wood. bewilderment he opened the box and suddenly turned into an old Very attractive patina. man. He then heard a whisper from the sea telling him he was told Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. not to open the box, in it was his old age… Estimate EUR 3.000,- Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 32 33 35 | A LARGE WOOD FIGURE OF A TARTAR ARCHER Signed Tomokazu 20th century The wood of a reddish tone and powerfully carved as large tartar archer (dattanjin) holding a bow in his left hand and an arrow in the other. His finely incised robe is decorated with cloud patterns and shows boldly executed and accentuated folds with flowing sleeves. The archer has a large trifurcated beard and grimly looks out from his finely carved, large and wide hat. The backside shows a dragon- headed quiver. There are no openings for himotoshi. Signature TOMOKAZU ƤĂ on the underside of one foot. The work is of defined sculptural quality. HEIGHT 11.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. This work appears to be an exact copy of the ivory tartar archer in the Trumpf collection illustrated in Patricia Jirka Schmitz, Netsuke, fig. 6. However, the illustrated netsuke has himotoshi between the dragon-headed quiver. Estimate EUR 5.000,- Starting price EUR 2.500,- 34 35 36 | RYOMIN: A VERY FINE IVORY NETSUKE 37 | CHIKUYOSAI TOMOCHIKA: A MAGNIFICENT OF A BOY WITH HOBBY HORSE IVORY NETSUKE OF A MOTHER WITH CHILD %\2QR5\RPLQVLJQHG5\RPLQZLWKNDR %\&KLNX\RVDL7RPRFKLNDVLJQHG7RPRFKLND Japan, Edo/Tokyo, second half of 19th century Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An incredibly detailed, finely stained and carved miniature A rather large ivory netsuke depicting a mother supporting her child on her back masterpiece depicting a young boy riding a hobby horse. The boy DQGKROGLQJDODUJHWHDNHWWOH7KHZRPDQLVD%LMLQ EHDXWLIXOODG\ ȂDV\PERORI must be from a wealthy background as he is wearing elaborately eroticism, as the netsuke has light shunga undertones, the mother’s sensitively worked clothing with inlays of red and green-stained horn. A little crafted breasts are revealed. Furthermore, she represents fertility and devotion, as pouch is tied to his obi. The expression and mane of the horse she carries her child and a tea kettle, presumably to her husband. The robes of the are finely carved and the little wheel, which also shows horn-inlay, two are carved exquisitely, adorned with geometrical motifs. Good himotoshi in the emerges from the underside. Minutely engraved signature RYOMIN back as well as the signature TOMOCHIKA Ƥʡ in a slightly polished reserve. ႂΦ with kao on the underside. Himotoshi seem to be absent, though there are natural possibilities. HEIGHT 6.6 cm HEIGHT 4.2 cm Condition: Very good condition with slightly worn features and faint age cracks. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Condition: Superb condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Probably one of the finest netsuke by Tomochika to grace our rooms. Literature comparison: A similar netsuke with two boys and hobby Estimate EUR 4.000,- KRUVHLVVKRZQLQ)0HLQHUW]KDJHQ0&Ζ3DUW%1HZ Ono Ryomin of Tokyo, born in 1833, was a student of Ho Rakumin. He was known, amongst others, for his extremely fine depictions of children. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 36 37 38 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH DRUM Unsigned Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Depicting a seated Dutchman wearing a large hat and holding a 40 | AN EARLY AND FINE IVORY NETSUKE drum in front of him, one hand resting on the drum and another OF A SHISHIMAI DANCER holding a mallet. Excellent himotoshi through the under- and backside. The entire surface is covered in a beautiful honey patina. Unsigned Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) HEIGHT 3.8 cm Condition: Very good, worn condition. Expected age cracks and Carved as a boy with a drum tied to his obi in front him, holding a excellent patina. pair of drumsticks and wearing a festive cloak incised with three Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. different geometrical patterns. He is lifting his Shishimai mask, revealing his face. The boy has very finely crafted facial features Estimate EUR 1.500,- with full cheeks, a sensitively crafted nose and a charming smile. Starting price EUR 750,- The Shishi mask at the top is equally well-carved with expressive features and finely carved curls. The icing on the cake is the patina – honey orange in the back and coherently worn in just the right places, indicating a well-used and loved piece. The generous himotoshi, as well, are perfect. HEIGHT 7.6 cm Condition: Expected age cracks, beautiful patina. One foot is restored very well. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. 39 | MASAHIRO: A VERY RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A BUTTERFLY DANCER, KOCHO NO MAI The Shishimai festival was imported from China during the Tang dynasty and is celebrated during the New Year to bring good luck %\0DVDKLURVLJQHG0DVDKLUR and ward off evil spirits. The subject is commonly treated in netsuke Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) art; however, this quality is very rare. Estimate EUR 2.000,- The butterfly dancer performing the kocho no mai is shown in a Starting price EUR 1.000,- dancing posture, one leg raised, holding a drum in one hand with another swinging upwards. His wings, neatly incised with circular patterns, are spread and two garlands surround him, flowing downwards to his legs. Finely carved facial features and good staining. Small himotoshi in the back and signature on the left foot MASAHIRO ȢЗ. HEIGHT 5.2 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Literature comparison: For another example of this very rare subject see Karl M. Schwarz, Netsuke Subjects, no. 290. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 38 39 41 | KINRYUSAI: AN IVORY NETSUKE 43 | A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN OF KAN’U BEING MASSAGED BY A BLIND MAN Unsigned Japan, probably Gifu, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) %\.LQU\XVDLVLJQHG.LQU\XVDLZLKVHDO Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A well-carved wood netsuke of a wide-eyed and grinning Raijin shown resting his hands on a pair of geta – a classic attribute since The Chinese general Kan’U (in Chinese Guan Yu), also known the geta are also associated with rainy weather. The thunder god as the god of war, is leaning on a table with one knee and has his drum, which he uses to create thunder, strapped to his KROGLQJKLVEHDUGZLWKDVWHUQIDFHGH[SUHVVLRQ%HKLQGKLPLV back. The eyes and horns are inlaid in ivory. He is seated crossing a blind man giving him a massage, holding his arm and working his legs and wearing a tiger skin loincloth, typical for devils (oni). on it with his elbow. A large pot with a coral branch is carved Good himotoshi through the under- and backside. behind them. Cleverly placed himotoshi through the table and backside of Kan’U. The manner of carving and staining is very HEIGHT 3.3 cm much in the manner of the Tomochika school of Edo. Signed and sealed on the underside of the table KINRYUSAI ඁȸ. Condition: The netsuke has been HEIGHT 4.1 cm reattached at the mid- section. Otherwise Condition: Very good condition. good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Estimate EUR 1.000,- Collection. Starting price EUR 500,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 44 | HO RAKUMIN: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE 42 | OKURA: A RARE IVORY OF JIZO WRESTLING AN ONI NETSUKE OF KANNINBUKURO %\+R5DNXPLQVLJQHG+R5DNXPLQZLWKNDR %\2JXUD7RPR\XNLVLJQHG2NXUD Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615- 1868) Published: Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, Honolulu 1982, p. 473. Published: Karl M. Schwarz, Netsuke Subjects, 1992, no. 239. A fine ivory netsuke of Jizo, wearing earrings and naked except for a loincloth, wrestling with an oni on top of a lotus leaf. Jizo holds A rare depiction of Kanninbukuro (the sack of on to the oni’s tiger-skin loincloth with both hands, while the little patience) which relates to the amount of patience devil, confidently smiling, has one hand over the monk’s shoulder one has to muster from being insulted and and another supporting himself on the leaf. Finely carved details, offended and tying this up in an invisible bag. especially of the individual facial expressions, and finely stained – a This is represented in this netsuke by a kneeling prime example from this important Edo artist, perhaps only rivalled old man, visibly strained, tying up a huge bag by his contemporary Hojitsu. The underside with the veiny structure in front of him, inscribed in the front ‘Kannin’ of the lotus leaf and a central himotoshi, as well as the signature (patience). One fears the bag is about to burst neatly inlaid with a gold tablet HO RAKUMIN ǐΦ with kao. and one more drop may be too much for him too bear. Finely stained and carved details. Himotoshi HEIGHT 2.3 cm, LENGTH 3.6 cm on the underside and signature in a wavy reserve OKURA Ň, for Ogura Tomoyuki, and Condition: Very good condition. The nick on the lotus leaf is considering the style most likely of the Tomochika intended. school. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. HEIGTH 4.3 cm -L]RLVD%RGGKLVDWWYDSDWURQRIGHFHDVHGFKLOGUHQDQGKDVWKH ability to open the gates of hell – typically amusing of the netsuke Condition: Good condition, the himotoshi shows carver to show him wrestling with an oni. some wear. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Literature comparison: For a similar netsuke signed Rakumin see F. previously collection Karl. M Schwarz. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part A, New York, 1986, page 160. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 40 41 47 | GYOKURIN: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN WITH RAITARO %\*\RNXULQVLJQHG*\RNXULQ Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, Honolulu 1982, p. 426. The thunder god Raijin is depicted as a muscular oni, with long curly hair and wearing a thin loincloth, tightly curled into a ball and holding his knees as if he was rocking back and forth in agony. His expression is amusing, completely worn out and stressed, as his son Raitaro is mischievously grinning and banging on his back, trying to gain his attention. Raijin is often caricaturized in netsuke art, and in the present netsuke he is shown as the worn-out father – the powerful thunder god dejected by something very humanly, 45 | TOMOTAKA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF one does feel for this poor deity…The carving is sublime, bold TWO ARM WRESTLING NIO ON A WARAJI and powerful, and the patina is superb, smooth and shimmering and worn in all the right places. Large himotoshi through Raijin’s .ڄ7RPRWDNDVLJQHG7RPRWDND buttocks. Signed underneath the right foot GYOKURIN \% Japan, Edo, ca. 1860, Edo period (1615-1868) HEIGHT 4.2 cm, LENGTH 4.4 cm An Edo-school ivory netsuke depicting two Nio, their eyes inlaid Condition: Very good condition with excellent patina. with black horn, engaged in the sport of udezumo (arm wrestling), Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. on top of a giant waraji (sandal). The netsuke is an emblem of endurance and strength. Finely carved details and very good Estimate EUR 2.500,- staining. Signature TOMOTAKA ƤƬ in a wavy reserve on the Starting price EUR 1.250,- underside above a central himotoshi. Tomochika school. LENGTH 5.2 cm Condition: Excellent condition, two very faint age cracks. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Nio are athletic temple guardians, whose sculptures are seen by WKHHQWUDQFHJDWHVRI%XGGKLVWWHPSOHVΖWZDVWKRXJKWWKDWRIIHULQJ a sandal to their sculptures would heal the exhausted feet from the long pilgrimages to the temples. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 46 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO WRESTLERS Unsigned -DSDQHDUO\ WKbFHQWXU\(GRSHULRGb Carved from cherry wood and lightly stained depicting two wrestlers on their knees trying to grab each other by the belt with one hand, performing ottsuke (arm-clamp down), the other hand SUHYHQWLQJWKHFRXQWHUSDUWIURPUHDFKLQJWKHEHOW%RWKIDFLDO expressions are quite amusing. The underside further underlines their symmetrical movement, showing four chubby legs divided by a central himotoshi. HEIGHT 5.2 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 42 43 48 | A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF RAIJIN WITH RAITARO ARMED WITH FISH HEADS Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: INSJ, Volume 23, No.3 (2003), page 27 (Gabor Wilhelm, 7KH2II%URDGZD\&ROOHFWRU3DUW Depicting the thunder god Raijin carrying his son piggyback. The design is bold and powerful, dictated by the restrictions placed on the artist by the thick triangular shape of this precious material, and the artist has managed masterfully! Raijin has a large, powerfully carved head, facing up and giving the design a powerful upwards trajectory imbued with movement from one of Raijin’s raised, clawed feet. His son Raitaro is hanging over his shoulder, one leg trailing down his father’s back, and he is grimly facing straight forward, giving the juxtaposition of the individual expression a powerful dynamic. Most interestingly perhaps and presenting us with an enigma (as Gabor Wilhelm put it in his article), are the two drumsticks Raijin is holding, which resemble fish carcasses with their heads still attached. The himotoshi in the back are perfectly placed to ensure the netsuke hangs correctly from the obi. HEIGHT 7.2 cm Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks and spots of honey patina. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 44 45 49 | MASAKAZU: IVORY NETSUKE OF A 51 | HOMIN: AN IVORY NETSUKE KARAKO SCARING A YOUNG MONK OF TWO BOYS AS MUSICIANS %\0DVDND]XVLJQHG0DVDND]X %\+RPLQVLJQHG+RPLQZLWKNDR Japan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Edo/Tokyo, mid to late 19th century A finely carved and lightly stained ivory netsuke of a frightened and An ivory netsuke depicting a joyously drumming karako next to cowering young monk with his face in his hands. A mischievous another boy dressed as a Kabuki actor wearing the mask of Usofuki karako is standing on a box behind and looming over him, wearing and holding a fan and bell tree. Small himotoshi and signature an eerily grinning oni mask and holding a Kanabo (iron war club) HOMIN ɲẛ with kao on the underside. with both hands. Amusingly it appears he has two pairs of horns, as the little inlaid black horn tufts of hair, characteristic of karako, HEIGHT 3.8 cm look similar to the horns of the oni mask. Good himotoshi through the back and the signature MASAKAZU ȢĂ in an oval reserve on Condition: Good condition with a worn patina on the back. the box. The toes of the actor are ever so slightly chipped. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. HEIGHT 4.4 cm Estimate EUR 800,- Condition: One horn on Starting price EUR 400,- the oni mask is possibly restored very well. Otherwise in excellent condition. Provenance: Collection Paul Corbin, then The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 50 | MASAYUKI: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MASK CARVER IMITATING USUFOKI MASK 52 | DORAKU: AN IVORY NETSUKE %\.DWR0DVD\XNLVLJQHG0DVD\XNLZLWKNDR OF A MASK BOX WITH USOFUKI Japan, Edo/Tokyo, mid to late 19th century %\'RUDNX 6DL VLJQHG'RUDNX Japan, Osaka, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely crafted as a mask carver, wearing an elaborately folded robe and cap, and holding a chisel and the mask of Usufoki. Amusingly, he is imitating the distorted facial features of Usufoki – perhaps he Finely stained and carved as a mask box with the mask of Usofuki is gaining inspiration from the act. The underside well-carved with on the lid. The underside with himotoshi and signature DORAKU large himotoshi and the signature MASAYUKI and kao Ȣƥ. ƅǐ. Doraku(Sai) was a member of the Osaka school and a famous student of Mitsuhiro. HEIGHT 3.5 cm HEIGHT 2 cm, LENGTH 3.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with miniscule scratches and wear to the wood. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 500,- Starting price EUR 400,- 46 47 54 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A TENGU STIRRING MISO Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A wood netsuke of a tengu holding his amusingly long nose in both hands to stir miso in a bowl held between his feet. He is wearing a tokin cap, and his long hair and the wings in the back are carved with extraordinary detail. Appealing patina to the dark accentuated wood. Good, irregular himotoshi on the underside. HEIGHT 3.5 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. The tengu are mythical forest dwellers, led by their king Sojobo and can take on a fully human form. They are often associated with erotic netsuke (shunga) due to their long nose, and often depicted together with the naughty Shinto goddess Okame. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 55 | A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF THREE MUSHROOMS Unsigned 53 | A RARE STAG ANTLER SHUNGA NETSUKE Japan, probably Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) OF OKAME AND TENGU MASKS Unsigned A group of three mushrooms (take) of ascending size, their broad Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) caps elegantly overlapping. The surface of the caps is smooth and beautifully stained. The underside carved with meticulous detail and an incredibly sense of naturalism, showing the stems and ribbed Carved as the mask of the Shinto goddess Okame behind the mask surface of the underside of the caps. Natural himotoshi. The quality of a long-nosed tengu. Okame is suggestively grinning at the phallic of the carving could suggest a Nagoya artist, such as Tadatoshi. shape of the exaggeratedly long nose. The use of the material is superior. A branch section of antler was used, with the long nose HEIGHT 2.5 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cm resembling a natural branch, brilliantly utilized. The central section is hollow. Only the underside really shows the characteristic porous Provenance: The Gabor surface of the antler, the rest appears like beautifully stained ivory. Wilhelm Collection. One pierced himotoshi and the other natural through the hollow Condition: Excellent condition. section between the two masks. Due to the phallic shape HEIGHT 3.3 cm, LENGTH 6.3 cm of mushrooms, they are often seen as erotic netsuke Condition: Very good condition. (shunga). Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 48 49 57 | SHUNGETSU: IVORY NETSUKE OF A TANUKI SUFFOCATING A HUNTER WITH HIS SCROTUM %\6KXQJHWVXVLJQHG6KXQJHWVX Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) A well-carved, finely stained and compact ivory netsuke of a tanuki suffocating a hunter with his gigantic scrotum. Tanuki are known to have magical powers and are mischievous creatures. Though not always dangerous, they are especially hostile to hunters, as they beguile them by drumming on their bellies, subsequently crushing them with their enlarged testicles. The tanuki has well-carved fur and a smoothly polished scrotum with sparsely incised hair. The hunter is quite helpless and squirming in agony. Small himotoshi and signature SHUNGETSU ԛʃ on the underside. HEIGHT 3.3 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Shungetsu, active in the early Meiji period, was born in 1841 and was a pupil of Shunkosai Chogetsu. 56 | TOMOMASA: AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE OF A TANUKI Estimate EUR 1.200,- WITH GIANT SCROTUM Starting price EUR 600,- %\7RPRPDVDVLJQHG7RPRPDVD Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) 58 | A RARE WOOD ‘DOUBLE SHUNGA’ NETSUKE OF A MOTHER AND CHILD The tanuki is a magical shapeshifting creature which Unsigned resembles a raccoon dog. Here he is shown with Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) distinct human features, such as his human arms and legs and the loincloth and headband he is wearing. The tanuki is struggling to hold up his gigantic wrinkly A highly suggestive and early shunga netsuke carved as a mother, scrotum, which is pressed onto his face. According to with chubby cheeks and a high forehead like Okame, holding up her legend, this creature utilized its distended scrotum son, revealing his genitals. The underside further reveals her female to suffocate hunters, as seen in catalog no. 57. The genitals. A rare and rustic ‘double shunga’ netsuke. Good patina wood of a very good tone with a fine natural patina and cleverly placed himotoshi in the back. and the eyes of the tanuki are inlaid in dark horn. Good himotoshi through the tanuki’s behind and HEIGHT 6.4 cm abbreviated signature on the side of the loincloth TOMOMASA ƤȢ. Condition: Good condition with an appealing patina. One tiny chip to the side of the boy’s genitals. HEIGHT 5.2 cm Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Condition: Very good condition with appealing patina Estimate EUR 1.200,- Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Starting price EUR 600,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 50 51 59 | AN IMPORTANT WOOD AND IVORY SHUNGA NETSUKE OF A CHINESE LADY WITH SHISHI CENSER ATTRIBUTED TO KANJURO Unsigned, attributed to Kanjuro Japan, Osaka, mid to late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A tall wood netsuke of Chinese lady with inlaid ivory hands and a sensitively crafted ivory face with her hair neatly tied into a top knot, the details lacquered in black. The ornately crafted robe is made from wood with powerfully accentuated garment folds, finely incised cloud designs and a neat floral collar. In front of her she KROGVDFHQVHUZLWKDVQDUOLQJ%XGGKLVWOLRQRU6KLVKLFDUYHGRQ top. Externally, this is already a fine and powerful netsuke, however internally there is a surprise which lifts this netsuke to a new level – an ingenious hidden mechanism, way ahead of its time! The bottom section is removable, revealing her naked body. The long thin legs are carved from pale ivory, appearing very sensitive. Her genitals are revealed when tilting the netsuke. The lady would be completely enveloped in her robe when worn outside in public, only her ivory features would give a subtle clue to the ambiguity of the design. Inside, perhaps after a good round of sake, the hidden interior could be revealed. Large himotoshi through the back, one of them through the naked ivory body. HEIGHT 10.5 cm Condition: Very good, complete condition. The mechanism is fully functional. A bolt which had been put into place to hide the inner mechanism has been removed. Some minor wear to the lacquered details. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Kanjuro (MCI page 307) specialized and probably originated the method of carving figures in wood with hands and feet in ivory – the extension of that being a hidden interior carved from ivory, perfectly lending to the idea of shunga netsuke, which emerged from the increased popularity of shunga designs in woodblock prints. Kanjuro is one of the few names mentioned in the Soken Kisho and is only known by his real name, therefore it is assumed he never signed his netsuke. Netsuke attributed to Kanjuro are extremely rare, and the artist was clearly ahead of his time, making this netsuke an important artefact. Literature comparison: Compare to a netsuke of Seiobo with the same hidden mechanism and attributed to Kanjuro, sold by Zacke, Netsuke und Inro aus Japan – Austellung 1985, Vienna, no. 35. Another similar netsuke, this time with the same depiction, is illustrated in the journal of the International Netsuke Collector’s Society, volume 3, no. 1, page 9. Estimate EUR 10.000,- Starting price EUR 5.000,- 52 53 61 | MASAKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A YAWNING OKAME %\0DVDND]XVLJQHG0DVDND]X Japan, Gifu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An amusing depiction of the Shinto goddess Okame, also known as Otafuku, known for performing the first nude dance in Japan. This work shows her half-nude, with large breasts, a large belly and a FDYHUQRXV\DZQ%RWKDUPVDUHUDLVHGXSDJDLQLQWKHPDQQHURI the Zen patriarch Daruma, who is often depicted yawning after his nine-year mediation. Okame depicted in this way is also often called Onna Daruma (“Woman Daruma”). Large, generous himotoshi through the back and the left buttock. Signed MASAKAZU ȢĂ LQVLGHDQRYDOUHVHUYHXQGHUQHDWK%HDXWLIXOGDUNSDWLQD HEIGHT 6.4 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Probably one of the finest netsuke of this type. For more information on Onna Daruma see no. 63. $XFWLRQFRPSDULVRQ )RUDYHU\VLPLODUQHWVXNHVHH%RQKDPV Netsuke from a European Collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 130. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 60 | RAKUMIN: A RARE WOOD AND IVORY NETSUKE OF A VISITING COURTESAN 62 | SHUZAN: A POLYCHROME AND INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF DARUMA %\+R5DNXPLQVLJQHG5DNXPLQ Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) %\1DJDPDFKL6KX]DQVLJQHG6KX]DQ Japan, Osaka, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A fine inlaid wood netsuke depicting a visiting courtesan, enveloped in a thick robe, reminding one of Onna Daruma. She has a finely A boxwood netsuke colored in red, blue, green and gold depicting inlaid ivory face, with two dimples on the forehead like Okame, and the Zen Patriarch Daruma entirely wrapped in women’s clothing long black hair inlaid in dark wood. In front of her she holds a large and holding a hossu. Daruma’s face is inlaid in ivory with painted hat, carved from dark wood and held in place by a peg, as if she was accents, as are his shoes on the underside. The backside with good, KLGLQJVRPHWKLQJ%HKLQGWKHKDWVKHKROGVDILQHO\FUDIWHGLYRU\ irregular himotoshi and signature in a wavy reserve SHUZAN ̠ͪ. cane. Her sandaled feet as well are inlaid in ivory. Often this type of netsuke would be gimmicked to reveal her naked body, like no. 59, HEIGHT 5.4 cm however here one can only imagine what lies under her thick robe, incised with minimalistic images of vines. The backside with good, Condition: The tip of both feet have been restored and there is large himotoshi and the signature RAKUMIN ǐΦ located by her minor wear to the inlaid ivory face. Tiny chip to the hem of the robe. side on the hem of her robe. Otherwise in good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. HEIGHT 6.4 cm Similarly to no. 63 the present netsuke is an allusion to the motif Condition: Miniscule losses to the side of her sandaled feet. of Daruma and courtesans. An interpretation is that Daruma has Otherwise excellent condition. switched clothes with a woman or he is attempting to sneak out of Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. a brothel unnoticed. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 600,- 54 55 64 | RYUMIN: IVORY AND MIXED METAL KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE OF DARUMA By Serizawa Ryumin, signed Ryumin with kao Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Fitted in a choice ivory bowl, the mixed metal and gilt lid shows a finely crafted image of a woeful Daruma. The patriarch of Zen-Buddhism is shown after his nine-year meditation with long furrowed brows, curling beard and a silver earring. Signed RYUMIN ӐΦ with kao. DIAMETER 4.5 cm Condition: Very good condition. Minor signs of use to the cord channel on the back. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Serizawa Ryumin, a student of Tenmin, was a fine metalwork artist and made mostly kanamono (pouch fittings) and kagamibuta. Auction comparison: The lid is very similar to a kagamibuta by Kokusai sold by Bonhams, Fine Japanese and Korean Art, New York, 20 March 2019, lot 275. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 63 | ICHIYUSAI: A MARINE IVORY 65 | SHUMIN: A FINE WOOD MANJU NETSUKE OF ONNA DARUMA NETSUKE OF DARUMA %\ΖFKL\XVDL1DRKDUX1DRPLWVXVLJQHGΖFKL\XVDL By Hara Shumin, signed Shumin Japan, Osaka, late 19th century Japan, Edo, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A marine ivory manju netsuke depicting Onna-Daruma (‘the female Finely carved as the Zen patriarch Daruma, bare-chested and Daruma’) with well-crafted garment folds and holding a hossu (fly almost completely enveloped in his robe, with a stern-faced whisk). Visible behind her are prison bars, an allusion to a brothel, meditative expression. The garment folds are powerfully since the kanji for brothel and prison are very similar. The back accentuated, and the facial expression is masterfully crafted. The shows a beautiful yellow-shimmering patina with himotoshi and lightly stained wood has developed a very appealing patina over signature ICHIYUSAI ĂʹDERYHDKDOIRSHQHG%XGGKLVWVFUROO time. The underside with inlaid ivory himotoshi, the larger one stained green, next to the signature SHUMIN লẛ. DIAMETER 4 cm HEIGHT 3.8 cm Condition: Very good condition, the facial features are slightly worn. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Condition: Excellent condition. 7KHLPDJHRIWKHIHPDOH%RGKLGKDUPDLVXQLTXHWR-DSDQ2QH Provenance: The Gabor explanation of its origin is an anecdote from the early Edo period: Wilhelm Collection. A courtesan claimed that she was ahead of Daruma since he only gazed for nine years against a wall while she had been standing This was a popular model tirelessly for ten years in the display of her brothel. This inspired by Hara Shumin, who was the famous painter Hanabusa Itcho (1652 – 1742) to paint the a pupil and adopted son first images of Onna Daruma (female Daruma). The popular motif of Hara Shugetsu. shows the interweaving of clever wordplay, wit and satirical criticism RI%XGGKLVWPRQNVȆ'DUXPD2QQDȇZDVDOVRXVHGDVDGLVPLVVLYH Estimate EUR 1.200,- expression for ‘street girl’, thus depictions of the female Daruma Starting price EUR 600,- are often shunga heavy, though in more clever artworks, the Zen- character of Onna Daruma is evident. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 56 57 66 | A BRILLIANT STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A YAWNING DARUMA Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An unusual depiction of Daruma, appearing almost boy-like, awakened from his 9-year meditation and yawning with his hands behind his back, though it appears more that he is shouting with wide opened eyes and mouth. The subject appears to be a variation of the pumpkin daruma, as the daruma emerges from an inanimate REMHFWȂWKHEDVHDQGKLVȆVKLUWȇRQFHEHORQJLQJWRJHWKHU%ULOOLDQW use of the antler material. Himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 6.3 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 58 59 67 | A RARE STAG ANTLER 69 | A RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE NETSUKE OF AN OCTOPUS OF KADORI MYOJIN TAMING A NAMAZU Unsigned Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The octopus (tako) is seated on a rock, its wriggly tentacles The deity Kadori Hyojin is shown standing atop a namazu intertwining and dangling down. The tako’s large head (earthquake fish), taming it with a large gourd – both the Namazu is dominant in this piece, ideally rounded and smooth and Kadori seem contented by this event. The netsuke is carved with the typical structure of the antler material appearing from a choice piece of tubular stag antler, with plugged sections beautifully at the top and going downwards to its pressed in the top and bottom. The surface displays a beautiful aji (patina), forward funnel-shaped mouth. It has an amusingly well-worn and smooth to the touch. Unusually, Kadori’s garment is fierce-looking expression. The use of material is brilliant DGRUQHGZLWK%XGGKLVWVZDVWLNDV7KHKLPRWRVKLDUHFORVHWRJHWKHU as the rest of the carving almost appears like ivory. The on the under- and backside. section which was used is near the base of the antler, with the base forming the head, therefore not needing to HEIGHT 4.6 cm be plugged, which was carefully and smoothly polished. The rockwork and tentacles are from the extending Condition: Very good condition. Plugged sections of the hollow stag tubular section, which is hollow. It is possible that this antler. netsuke was also used as a cane handle, though there are Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. natural himotoshi through the openworked section of the tentacles. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- HEIGHT 6.4 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 68 | A VERY RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A NAUTILUS IN SHELL 70 | A STAG ANTLER NETSUKE Unsigned OF A MONKEY WITH CHESTNUT Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A rustic and relatively large stag antler netsuke of a nautilus inside its shell. The cephalopod’s tentacles are creeping across the opening and the shell is carved Carved from a tubular piece of stag antler, hollow in the center with good detail in the top with rows of barnacles. The and with a plug on the top of its head, depicting a slightly stylized himotoshi in the back exhibit considerable wear, showing monkey with amusingly large eyes, holding a chestnut. Spectacular this is an early and used piece. Netsuke of nautiluses are patina indicating an early piece. One large himotoshi in the back incredibly rare, and this may well be the only one recorded and the other natural through the hollow section of the antler. now. HEIGHT 5.5 cm LENGTH 7.4 cm Condition: Good condition, stunning patina. Plugged section of the Condition: Very good condition with minor expected wear. hollow stag antler. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 500,- 60 61 71 | AN ASAKUSA SCHOOL STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A DRAGON MOKUGYO Unsigned Japan, Edo, Asakusa school, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A stag antler netsuke of manju form depicting a mokugyo, the handle carved with confronting one-horned dragon heads contesting a single tama (magical pearl) between their mouths. The sides with finely carved manes with flaring curls on both sides and scales on one side. The material is beautiful, displaying a good aji (patina) coupled with porous sections, giving it a unique appeal which only stag antler can create. The reverse with one circular and one large oval himotoshi. HEIGHT 4.6 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. The mokugyo (literally wooden fish) is a type of percussion instrument often used in temples. This type was made across the board of Asakusa school artists, so it is difficult to name an artist, see for example a mokugyo by Kokusai in Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, Sydney L. Moss Ltd., 2016, no. 123. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 73 | AN EXCELLENT MIXED METAL AND STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A SNAIL AND ACORNS Unsigned 72 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A BAKU HEADED Japan, Asakusa, mid to late 19th century MOKUGYO IN THE STYLE OF GYOKUMIN What a feat to carve a snail in such a way out of iron! The snail is Unsigned, style of Gyokumin (1800-1868) carved with a spiraling shell with applied gold accents in nunome Japan, Asakusa, mid to late 19th century, Edo period zogan appearing like strokes from a golden brush. The wrinkly (1615-1868) skin of the snail is achieved brilliantly, with little dents in the iron masterfully mimicking the natural structure of snail skin. The snail is fitted into an openworked stag antler bowl depicting a branch Depicted is a mokugyo temple bell with the handle shaped like the head of of acorns and it appears to be slithering across the leaves. The a baku with large inlaid eyes, small tusks, its tongue sticking outwards and decaying of the leaves is achieved very well, and the material of a dominant long curling snout. Swirling flame-like curls trail down from its antler is used magnificently in this respect. The himotoshi in the neck to both sides of the temple bell. The underside with the characteristic backside are brilliantly incorporated into the structure. Asakusa opening of the mokugyo. Natural himotoshi. school. HEIGHT 5.3 cm HEIGHT 3.7 cm, LENGTH 4.4 cm Condition: Generally good but used and worn condition with age cracks. Condition: Superb condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. The baku is believed to eat bad dreams and is therefore used as a talisman Estimate EUR 2.500,- DJDLQVWQLJKWPDUHV7KHVRXQGRIWKH%XGGKLVWEHOO PRNXJ\R FDQDZDNHQ Starting price EUR 1.250,- WKHPLQGDQGWKHERGLO\HQHUJ\IURP%XGGKD Literature comparison: For similar works by Gyokumin see Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., 2016, nos. 473-478. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 62 63 74 | A BRILLIANT STAG ANTLER RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH FLOWERS AND WEAVE Unsigned Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa, mid to late 19th century A brilliantly hollowed-out and carved Asakusa-school stag antler ryusa-manju showing a chrysanthemum (kiku) blossom in the front. From the petals extend threads which are intricately ‘woven’ together, seemingly held together by a concentric band on the side – though the entire composition is carved! These threads lead to the other side and lie above a stylized flower incredibly made from an entirely porous and deep black section of the antler. One of the himotoshi forms the central part of the stylized flower, and the second larger oval himotoshi is just beneath. The use of material in this netsuke is unparalleled. DIAMETER 4.4 cm, THICKNESS 2 cm Condition: Superb condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 75 | KOHOSAI: AN EXCELLENT IVORY AND GOLD NETSUKE OF A FLOWERING CHRYSANTHEMUM %\8HGD.RKRVDL GLHG VLJQHG.RKRVDL Japan, Osaka, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely carved as a flowering chrysanthemum, the petals carved naturalistically and overlapping each other. The central section is inlaid in gold, finely carved to resemble layers of pollen, cleverly serving as the removable cord attachment through the central himotoshi in the back. Signed KOHOSAI ȓ in partially erased characters. DIAMETER 4.3 cm Condition: Very good condition. There used to be a metal ring around the himotoshi in the back, which is now lost. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Ueda Kohosai was a member of the Osaka school and probably close to Dosho(Sai) and Tetsugendu Kyusai, who carved similar flowers. Literature comparison: For two further floral compositions by the artist see F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part A, New York, 1986, page 356. Auction comparison: For a similar netsuke by Tetsguendo Kyusai VHH%RQKDPV7KH-XOLXVDQG$UOHWWH.DWFKHQ&ROOHFWLRQRI)LQH Netsuke, 10 May 2017, London, lot 189. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 64 65 76 | A VERY RARE MARINE IVORY 77 | A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF NETSUKE OF A BELL PEPPER THE THREE FRIENDS OF WINTER Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from marine ivory, the netsuke depicts a well-formed bell Depicting the three friends of winter, the bamboo, pine and plum. pepper, which evokes a synesthetic response – the image of the Symbolizing resilience, the three plants merge together to form overly ripe, almost bursting bell pepper arouses a sense of smell one beautiful netsuke, probably serving as a charm of strength and and taste. The stem is made of silver and the top and bottom part endurance. The motif is taken from China and is regarded high in of the bell pepper is stippled. Large himotoshi through one side. Confucianism. It was celebrated by the Chinese, as they observed that these three plants do not wither in winter. Natural himotoshi. TOTAL LENGTH 7 cm, LENGTH without stem 6.4 cm HEIGHT 4.9 cm Condition: The netsuke shows an appealing patina with yellow discoloration due to age and wear. Natural flaws in the marine ivory Condition: Very good condition. and a few age cracks. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Auction comparison: Compare to a boar-tooth netsuke of a chili Starting price EUR 500,- VROGE\%RQKDPV7KH5REHUW6+XWKDUW&ROOHFWLRQRIΖZDPL Netsuke, 15 May of 2019, lot 42. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 78 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF THIRTEEN CHESTNUTS Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An unusually large amount of chestnuts (kuri), thirteen to be exact, clustered together forming an ideally rounded netsuke. The patina is appealing, shades of dark brown, and smooth to the touch. %XGGKLVWVEHOLHYHWKDWWKHVRXOVRIWKHGHFHDVHGFDQVHWWOHLQNXUL Natural himotoshi. LENGTH 4.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition with appealing patina. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 66 67 79 | A RARE AND UNUSUAL COPPER BRONZE NETSUKE OF A HIKITE 81 | A RARE CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL MANJU NETSUKE Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, ca. 1860 In the shape of a hikite inset door handle used to push gliding A rare cloisonné enamel netsuke in perfectly round manju form. doors in Japanese houses. Decorated with images of leafy peach Decorated with blue, turquoise, green, red and white enamels branches in high relief. Small loop for himotoshi on the reverse. with gold wire. The cord attachment as a silver loop above a red kikunogomon, the imperial seal of Japan. HEIGHT 5.1 cm DIAMETER 3.7 cm, THICKNESS ca. 1.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, acquired from Dr. Karl. Condition: Good condition with expected minor fritting and small M Schwarz. losses to surface of enamel. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- Literature comparison: For a discussion of cloisonné enamel netsuke see INSJ, volume 35, no.4, pages 18-33. This manju is closest to no. 25. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 80 | A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF AN ANTIQUE CHINESE LOCK Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) 82 | AN UNUSUAL AND RARE FAN-SHAPED BLUE AND WHITE PORCELAIN SHUNGA NETSUKE A pale wood netsuke in the form of an antique Chinese lock carved Unsigned in high relief on one side with the character ‘Shou’ for long life, Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) and the character for ‘double happiness’ on the other. Images of antique coins and flowers are arranged in reserves to the side of the characters. Natural himotoshi. In the shape of a fan and painted in underglaze blue with a shunga scene depicting an enamored couple. The reverse decorated with LENGTH 4.7 cm tall grasses, where also the loop for himotoshi is located. Three unglazed spots show how it was placed in the kiln, and the reverse Condition: Very good condition, one miniscule crack near one of the rim unglazed and painted in brown. Chinese characters. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. HEIGHT 5.5 cm To our knowledge, this is the only netsuke depicting an antique Condition: Miniscule old firing crack. Very good condition. Chinese lock. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 500,- 68 69 83 | TEIJI: A RARE WOOD AND CERAMIC Condition: One small old worn-down chip to the rim of the wood NETSUKE OF MANY MASKS bowl. Minor wear to ceramic inlay. The oni mask with minor wear to the nose. Generally, in good condition. %\7HLMLVLJQHG7HLML Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Purchased from Alain Japan, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Ducros in 1994. Published: Ducros, Alain, Paris Edo: Convention Netsuke & Teiji, pupil of Seiji, was originally a potter and made unique netsuke Sagemono 1994, 2. with ceramic inlays. It is evident from the quality of the ceramic inlay in this netsuke that only a highly trained ceramicist could achieve this. Inlaid with nine pottery Noh and Kyogen masks, colored in brown, turquoise, red and white and set in a very light paulownia (kiri) Auction comparison: An almost identical netsuke was sold by wood bowl. The ceramic work is incredibly fine, with the tiny masks %RQKDPV7KH%OXHWWH+.LUFKKRII&ROOHFWLRQRI1HWVXNHDQG all showing superior detail. The underside with good himotoshi and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2135. signature TEIJI ᑰȕ on an inlaid ceramic plaque. Estimate EUR 3.000,- DIAMETER 4.6 cm Starting price EUR 1.500,- 84 | TWO FINE PRESSED HORN MANJU NETSUKE Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The first of round two-part manju form with a depiction of the Soga brothers. The reverse with a greenish hue and decorated with flowering peonies and a nine-tailed kitsune amidst billowing clouds. The second of rounded rectangular shape depicting Omori Hikoshichi carrying the demon across a stream, here depicted as a beautiful woman. The reverse with a finely carved moon shimmering through the clouds and a Hannya mask, hinting at the true nature of the woman, as Omori sees her demonic nature in the reflection of the water. The first DIAMETER 4.2 cm, the second SIZE 4.1 x 4.5 cm Condition: Very good condition Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 85 | JUGYOKU: AN EBONY AND HORN NETSUKE OF A SNAIL ON A ROOF TILE %\5\XNRVDL-XJ\RNXVLJQHG-XJ\RNX Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An ebony wood netsuke of a roof tile with a tiny snail (katatsumuri), carved from honey-colored horn, crawling across it. The composition is rather simplistic, though exactly in this lies the beauty – the netsuke is beaming with Zen-character! The rooftile is purposely worn on the surface and edges and shows a mitsudomo-e symbols as well as decorative carving on one side. A loop next to the snail forms the himotoshi above the signature JUGYOKU . LENGTH 4.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition, all wear is purposely carved. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 70 71 87 | TOMOKAZU: WOOD NETSUKE OF A COCKEREL ON A BRANCH Inscribed Tomokazu Japan, late 19th to 20th century A long-tailed cockerel (tori), also known as onagadori, on a branch with its head tilted to the left, lending movement to the composition. The plumage of the cockerel is pronounced, the long tail forms an elegant curve. Inlaid eyes. Signature TOMOKAZU Ƥ Ă on the branch. Himotoshi through the underside. The netsuke is finished with a thin layer of plain lacquer. HEIGHT 4 cm Condition: Very good and complete condition. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. The cockerel (tori) or rooster is the tenth animal in the zodiac and a symbol of potency and power. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 86 | A VERY RARE MOTHER OF PEARL NETSUKE OF FUKURA SUZUME Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from a piece of shimmering mother of pearl and depicting a suzume (sparrow) with large and red inlaid eyes. The sparrow has a puffy body with carved plumage on its back, short stubby wings with incised featherwork and short upright tail feathers. This type is called fukura suzume, was deemed lucky and was also a popular children’s toy. Large, generous himotoshi through the underiside. Mother of pearl katabori netsuke of this quality are extremely rare. 88 | A RARE AND GIGANTIC ACTOR’S WOOD NETSUKE OF A NIO WITH WARAJI HEIGHT 2 cm, LENGTH 3.2 cm Unsigned Condition: Very good condition. Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- A very large wood netsuke depicting a Nio with a huge waraji Starting price EUR 1.000,- strapped to his back. The expression of the guardian king is quite amusing, as he struggles to carry the gigantic waraji on his back. Due to the size of this netsuke, it is either a netsuke for a sumo wrestler or for an actor, used in a performance as a prop. Large himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 12.7 cm, WIDTH 6 cm (!) Condition: Good condition. Minor surface scratches and imperfections. One crack by the side of the neck. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection. Nio are athletic temple guardians, whose sculptures are seen by WKHHQWUDQFHJDWHVRI%XGGKLVWWHPSOHVΖWZDVWKRXJKWWKDWRIIHULQJ a sandal to their sculptures would heal the exhausted feet from the long pilgrimages to the temples. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 72 73 A Selection of Collections Lots 89 to 331 74 75 ANIMALS OF THE JAPANESE ZODIAC RAT / NEZUMI The rat (nezumi) is the first animal in the zodiac and a symbol of wealth, as when there was plenty of food there would be plenty of rats – therefore the rat is also the companion of Daikoku, patron of the merchants and god of wealth. 90 | IKKO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO RATS %\ΖNNRVLJQHGΖNNR Japan, second half of 19th century Carved from a reddish pale wood and depicting two charming rats, the larger one eating a bean pod while the smaller one is sitting on its haunches and about to climb on the larger rat. The fur is neatly incised, and the large eyes are inlaid in lustrous black horn. The underside shows the curling tails, natural himotoshi and signature IKKO Ăʾ. HEIGHT 3 cm Condition: Excellent condition. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKSULYDWHFROOHFWLRQ Auction comparison: Compare to another netsuke by Ikko depicting WKUHHUDWVVROGE\%RQKDPV)LQH-DSDQHVH$UW0D\ London, lot 17. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 89 | A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO RATS 91 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH CHESTNUT Unsigned Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A very fine netsuke, carved from dark cherry wood, and displaying a beautiful aji (patina). Depicted is a large rat with its offspring A charming study of a rat (nezumi) holding a large chestnut. The nestling up to it, its paws protectively placed on the young rat, rat has full chubby cheeks, large eyes inlaid in horn and the ears forming a compact composition. The hairwork is masterful and the are in an alert position. The fur is neatly incised and the thick, finely large eyes are inlaid in lustrous black horn. The underside shows carved tail curls around over the rodent’s back. The underside with the curling tails and paws. Natural himotoshi. himotoshi through the chestnut. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 4 cm HEIGHT 3.2 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Condition: One plus-shaped crack to the side of the rat. Otherwise 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKSULYDWHFROOHFWLRQFRPLQJZLWKWZRYDOXDWLRQV very good condition. from Neil K. Davey from 1974 & 1984, collection no. 107. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKSULYDWHFROOHFWLRQ Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 76 77 92 | MASAKATSU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED RAT %\0DVDNDWVXVLJQHG0DVDNDWVX Japan, Yamada, Ise province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A fine wood netsuke of rat tightly coiled up into a ball. A genius design when considering the functionality as a netsuke, but also the uniqueness of the depiction. This model is believed to originate from the Masanao family of Ise-Yamada and was executed in different variations and sizes across members of the school/ family. The present netsuke is by Masakatsu, and shows particular individuality, evident in the carving of the face and eerily bony paws. The fur of the rat is precisely incised, and it is holding one paw to its face, another is holding its very well carved tail which extends all the way to the back and another is scratching its ear. The eyes are inlaid in lustrous black horn. Natural himotoshi through one of the legs and signed at the base of the tail in a polished reserve .ۥMASAKATSU Ȣ HEIGHT 3.7 cm Condition: Very good condition. Miniscule wear. Provenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 78 79 94 | MASAMITSU: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SWARM OF RATS WITH DARUMA DOLL %\0DVDPLWVXVLJQHG0DVDPLWVX Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) A classic model for this well-known artist who specialized in swarms of animals, mostly rats. Drowning in a sea of inlaid black horn eyes belonging to around thirty individually carved rats is a grim looking daruma doll, also with inlaid eyes, being eaten and torn apart. The rats all display individual moods, scurrying around or fighting. Well- carved and finely stained. Signature on the flat base MASAMITSU Ȣ ʾ and good asymmetrical himotoshi. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 5.1 cm Condition: Amazingly only one inlaid eye is lost. Minor imperfections, very good overall condition. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKSULYDWHFROOHFWLRQ Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 95 | MASAMITSU: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SWARM OF RATS ON A SEA BREAM 93 | SADAYOSHI: AN EXCELLENT IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH BAMBOO NODE %\0DVDPLWVXVLJQHG0DVDPLWVX Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) %\6DGD\RVKLVLJQHG6DGD\RVKL Japan, Osaka, early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved by the same artist and similar to previous no. 94, though this time carved with detail on both sides. The netsuke is finely stained and carved with a dense swarm of seventeen rats on top A fine and naturalistic ivory netsuke of a recumbent rat with its tail of a sea bream. All eyes are inlaid with black horn. The underside curling around and up its back. The rat or nezumi has a pointed shows the beautifully carved sea bream and three leaves, of which snout, large inlaid eyes of black horn and attentively curved ears. one holds the signature MASAMITSU Ȣʾ. Small himotoshi. The hairwork is incised masterfully and characteristically worn. The rat is holding a node of bamboo between three of its paws, LENGTH 5.8 cm which it fiercely claims for itself. The underside with himotoshi and signature in a rectangular reserve SADAYOSHI ǭύ. The artist is Condition: Very good condition. Amazingly no inlay to eyes lost. known for his naturalistic and bold carvings of animals. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKSULYDWHFROOHFWLRQ HEIGHT 2.2 cm, LENGTH 4.6 cm Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- Condition: Good condition, very appealing patina on the underside, one small crack to the tail and a very minute old chip to the edge of one ear. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKSULYDWHFROOHFWLRQZLWKWZRYDOXDWLRQVIURP Sotheby’s, by Neil K. Davey, dated 1974 & 1984, inventory no. 51. Literature comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke of two rats by Sadayoshi illustrated in International Netsuke Society Journal, 24/3, page 11. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 80 81 OX / USHI The ox (ushi) is the second sign of the zodiac and is an emblem of spring and agriculture. It also serves as a talisman against diseases. 96 | A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT OX LICKING ITS NOSE 97 | MITSUCHIKA: A LARGE AND RARE ATTRIBUTED TO RISUKE GARAKU WALRUS IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT COW WITH CALF Unsigned, attributed to Risuke Garaku Japan, Osaka, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) %\0LWVXFKLNDVLJQHG0LWVXFKLND Japan, Kyoto or Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published:%DUU\'DYLHV2ULHQWDO$UW1HWVXNHIURPWKH7HGG\ Hahn Collection, London, 1996, no. 80. A large and bulky model of a recumbent cow with her calf snuggling up to her and licking her face, their eyes inlaid in dark horn. The Powerfully carved as a recumbent ox with its tongue sticking out. material that was used for this powerful carving is a thick section of The rope halter which passes through its nose is carefully carved walrus tusk – a difficult material with many inclusions, as visible in and extends over the ox’s back. The body shape of the ox is carved this netsuke. Still, the details in this carving are sublime. The rope remarkably well, bold of design and bulky with sharp and strong halter that passes through the nose over the back, is carved crisply. contours. The fur is finely incised and characteristically worn. The The hairwork is fine and the body proportions of the cow are underside with finely carved tucked in legs and a beautiful rich boldly carved, conveying the weight of this large animal very well. In yellow patina, as well as large, coherent himotoshi. contrast, the young calf is carved sensitively. The underside shows the many hooves and large and generously deep himotoshi, as well LENGTH 5.5 cm as the signature MITSUCHIKA ʾʡ in a wavy reserve. Condition: Very good condition. The ivory worn with expected age LENGTH 6.5 cm cracks. Provenance: Ex Teddy Hahn Collection. Condition: Excellent condition with expected wear and age cracks. Provenance: European collection. Risuke Garaku of Osaka, one of the few artists mentioned in the Soken Kisho, was a bold and powerful carver from the latter half Meinertzhagen writes that it is probable that Mitsuchika was a of the 19th century. Some of his designs, like the present netsuke, student of Mitsuharu of Kyoto, due to his distinct Kyoto style oxen strongly suggest Kyoto school. and use of the character Mitsu ʾ. However, the wavy reserve and the addition of the character Chika ʡ, may suggest the Tomochika Auction comparison: For another netsuke attributed to Garaku of school of Edo. Perhaps the carver learned his craft in Kyoto and VLPLODUGHVLJQVHH%RQKDPV7KH(GZDUG:UDQJKDP&ROOHFWLRQRI subsequently moved to Edo. Japanese Art, 6 November 2013, London, lot 60. Literature comparison: Compare to another netsuke of a Literature comparison: For another model of an ox licking its nose recumbent ox with boy by Mitsuchika in Lazarnick, George, Netsuke see F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part A, New York, 1986, page 70. and Inro Artists, Honolulu 1982, p. 772. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 82 83 98 | MASANAO: AN EXCELLENT IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT COW %\0DVDQDRRI.\RWRVLJQHG0DVDQDR Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: International Netsuke Society Journal, volume 39, no.1 (2019), page 13. Masterfully carved with the precision and character that we have come to know from the great Masanao of Kyoto, arguably the greatest netsukeshi of all time. Unlike his contemporary Tomotada, the majority of oxen/cows carrying the signature Masanao are actually carved by the master, and in the present model there is absolutely no doubt. The expression of the cow, her pupils inlaid in dark horn, is achieved naturalistically, but also shows her confident and full of character. The rope halter which passes through the nose and over her back is carved minutely. The hairwork and the bulky body with large belly and expressed spine and rib cage, are all carved masterfully. The underside, as well, is a sight to behold with the cow’s legs tucked neatly underneath the body, showing a splendid curvature and wonderful honey patina. The asymmetrical himotoshi, the larger one being oval, and the signature on the left haunch in an oval reserve MASANAO Ȣˢ are perfect and exactly as they should be. LENGTH 6.1 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor wear and age cracks. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKFROOHFWLRQ Auction comparison: Compare to another model of a recumbent ox E\0DVDQDRRI.\RWRVROGDW%RQKDPV7KH+DUULHW6]HFKHQ\L6DOH of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 119. Estimate EUR 25.000,- Starting price EUR 12.500,- 84 85 TIGER / TORA The tiger (tora) is the third sign of the zodiac. 101 | A LARGE EARLY IVORY MANJU DIAMETER 5.3 cm, THICKNESS 2 cm An emblem of physical power and courage, and often WITH TIGER AND BAMBOO considered the earthly counterpart to the dragon. Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks and Unsigned beautiful honey patina. Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Provenance: Hungarian collection. The motif take no tora (tiger in bamboo) is a symbol for strength A thick and rather large ivory manju netsuke carved in shishiabori and resilience. The tiger has a strong nature, is flexible and resilient (sunken relief) with a snarling tiger below stalks of leafy bamboo, like the bamboo, but it is also said that the strong tiger is looking which are finely carved along the top. The design continues to for shelter underneath the bamboo, as any earthly power is inferior the other side which also shows falling leaves. The entire manju is to the forces of nature. Moreover, the tiger and bamboo represent 99 | AN AMUSING WOOD NETSUKE covered in a very attractive honey patina, indicating an early piece. WKHSRZHURIIDLWKLQ%XGGKLVP OF A RECUMBENT TIGER Early manju are quite rare, as they became increasingly popular only around the mid-19th century. Central himotoshi with an inset Estimate EUR 1.500,- Unsigned peg for the cord attachment. Starting price EUR 750,- Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The image of this tiger is quite grotesque and comical. The tiger is reclining, its head is curiously raised with a somewhat frightened and impish expression. The eyes are inlaid in horn and appear large, the mouth is slightly opened revealing rows of teeth which evoke a feeling of pity rather than awe. The tail shows the tiger’s fur coat pattern and elegantly curls up its back. The underside shows the well-carved paws and large, generous himotoshi. HEIGHT 2.5 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: The wood is slightly worn and shows an appealing patina. Very good condition. Provenance: French private collection, purchased from Galerie Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 100 | AN IVORY OSAKA STYLE NETSUKE OF A RECLINING TIGER Unsigned Japan, Osaka, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A grotesque image of a tiger in Osaka style with its head turned backwards, letting out an amusingly ambiguous snarl. The tiger has large eyes with inlaid pupils, its thick tail curls around its back and the fur coat pattern is naturalistically rendered, especially visible on the underside which shows an attractive yellowish patina with good himotoshi. LENGTH 5.2 cm Condition: Very good condition, the inked fur is slightly worn in some areas. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 86 87 102 | MITSUSHIGE: A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A TIGER %\0LWVXVKLJHVLJQHG0LWVXVKLJH Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The tiger is carved with a dynamically twisted neck and rubbery paws which the tiger forcefully pushes in front of it. Its head is tilted back and upwards, letting out a powerful roar. The eyes are inlaid with dark horn pupils and surmounted by thick bushy eyebrows. The hairwork is masterful and the characteristic tiger fur coat is beautifully expressed. The thick tail curls up the tiger’s back and touches its right ear. The underside shows the male genitals of the tiger, the signature MITSUSHIGE ʾȶ in a rounded reserve on the haunch and large deep himotoshi, with the other one to its side. HEIGHT 4.1 cm Condition: Very good condition with age cracks. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKFROOHFWLRQ A classic Mitsuharu model, made by Mitsuharu’s accomplished pupil Mitsushige. Auction comparison: Compare to a similarly dynamic model of a ELWFKDQGSXSE\0LWVXKDUXVROGE\%RQKDPV7KH-XOLXVDQG$UOHWWH Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke, 8 November 2016, London, lot 113. Compare also to a very similar tiger with cub by Mitsushige sold by Zacke, Netsuke von Meistern – Ausstellung 1989, Vienna, no. 13. Estimate EUR 8.000,- Starting price EUR 4.000,- 88 89 104 | A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT TIGER Unsigned, circle of Risuke Garaku (active ca. 1780) Japan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved as a recumbent tiger, dynamically executed and looking upwards, scratching its left ear with its hindleg. The stripes in the fur coat are well defined and the fur is masterfully worked, heavily inked and pleasingly worn. The feline produces a powerful expression, boldly executed with pupils inlaid in dark buffalo horn. Another striking detail is the tail which curls around underneath the body and up the tiger’s back. The well-carved underside shows large, deep himotoshi. Unsigned, however attributed to the circle of Risuke Garaku of Osaka. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with thin age cracks and appropriate wear. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKFROOHFWLRQ Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 103 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF TWO TIGERS ATTRIBUTED TO TANAKA HOSHINSAI Unsigned, attributed to Tanaka Hoshinsai Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A finely stained ivory netsuke set on a rounded rectangular base with a tiger and young huddling up to each other. The hairwork and fur pattern are executed very well. The idiosyncratic crazed expression of the larger tiger, achieved by inlaid eyes with another circle around them is typical for Tanaka Hoshinsai, as is the red stain inside the mouths. Himotoshi through the base. HEIGHT 3.1 cm, LENGTH 3.7 cm Condition: Very good condition. 3URYHQDQFH 3DXODQG/RXLVH%HUQKHLPHUFROOHFWLRQ7KHQ European private collection. Auction comparison: Compare with a group of tigers signed +RVKLQVDLVROGDW%RQKDPV)LQH-DSDQHVH$UW0D\ London, lot 2. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 90 91 105 | HAKURYU: AN EXCEPTIONAL IVORY NETSUKE OF A TIGER WITH TWO CUBS %\8QVKR+DNXU\XΖΖVLJQHG+DNXU\X Japan, Kyoto, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A rather large, compact, dynamically crafted and remarkably HEIGHT 3.3 cm, LENGTH 4.6 cm intricate ivory netsuke of a large female tiger with two cubs, one climbing over her back and another being protected underneath Condition: Excellent condition with expected minor age cracks. her body, one paw firmly placed on the cub. The mother’s body Provenance: French private collection. is muscular with pronounced shoulder bones, and her entire body is contorted into a circle, her thick tail swinging around over Hakuryu’s tigers are completely unique in their individuality, style and her back, as she lets out a powerful snarl. The climbing cub is expression and matched only perhaps by the tigers by Matsushita determined and bravely snarling, baring sharp rows of teeth, while Otoman. The existence of many imitations and copies of Hakuryu’s the protected cub appears to be afraid with a whimsical expression. tiger(s) perhaps give this distinct type a bad reputation, however this The dynamic of this netsuke is masterfully achieved, enhanced by netsuke is of superior quality and without a doubt by Hakuryu II, a the swinging tails of the three tigers. pupil of the first Hakuryu who is said to have originated from the Rantei school. The fur coats are remarkable and naturalistic with stained dark lines imitating the tiger’s fur pattern like wet running paint. Netsuke Literature comparison: For a similar netsuke with three tigers see The carvers knew their tiger fur very well, however the actual image 0HLQHUW]KDJHQ&DUGΖQGH[RQ1HWVXNHLQWKH$UFKLYHVRIWKH%ULWLVK of the tiger was often parodied or somewhat confused. As in this Museum Part A, Frederick Meinertzhagen (edited by George Lazarnick), netsuke where the tiger’s bodies come across all powerful, however New York, 1986, page 120. their expressions are comedic and rather docile. The eyes are inlaid Auction comparison: A similar netsuke with two tigers was sold by Zacke, in mother of pearl with the pupils far apart. The underside with Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, Vienna, lot 86. well-carved clawed paws, natural himotoshi and the signature is in -,meaning literally Estimate EUR 6.000) a double gourd shaped reserve HAKURYU Ƀ hundred dragons) on the mother tiger’s buttock. Starting price EUR 3.000,- 92 93 5$%%Ζ786$*Ζ The rabbit or hare (usagi) is the fourth sign of the Japanese zodiac, often also depicted under the full moon pounding mochi, then referred to as the lunar hare. 107 | GEKKO: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF RABBITS IN BAMBOO %\*HNNRVLJQHG*HNNR Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A good study of two rabbits (usagi) emerging from a dense thicket of bamboo, carved from reddish wood with accentuated areas ODFTXHUHGLQEODFN%RWKUDEELWVIDFHLQGLIIHUHQWGLUHFWLRQVWKHLU expressions are whimsical, and the eyes are inlaid in black lustrous horn. A quite amusing and compact composition. Large himotoshi through the underside and signature GEKKO ʃ. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 5 cm Condition: The applied black lacquer is worn in some areas giving the piece a unique and appealing patina. Very good condition. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKFROOHFWLRQ Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 106 | MITSUTADA: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RABBIT AND YOUNG %\0LWVXWDGDVLJQHG0LWVXWDGD Japan, Osaka, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A charming composition showing a rabbit (usagi) and young set on a base with rockwork and bamboo shoots. The adult is smooth and has large inlaid eyes of red amber. The young rabbit, beautifully stained a deep yellow and with fine hairwork, is climbing up on the adult’s back. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn. The underside with small himotoshi and signature MITSUTADA ʾฑ. HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 4.2 cm Condition: Very good condition with expected minor wear and scarce thin age cracks. Provenance: Ex Teddy Hahn Collection, then German private FROOHFWLRQ3UREDEO\IURPWKH%LQJFROOHFWLRQVROGDW+RWHO'URXRW 24th February 1924, lot 192. Mitsutada is a rare artist and was an accomplished pupil of Ohara Mitsuhiro (1810-1875) of Osaka. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 94 95 DRAGON / TATSU The dragon (tatsu) is the fifth animal of the zodiac. A supernatural creature from Chinese mythology representing celestial power. 108 | IKKAN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO RABBITS %\ΖNNDQVLJQHGΖNNDQ Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) 109 | MASANAO: AN EXCELLENT WOOD MANJU NETSUKE OF A CELESTIAL DRAGON Finely carved from dark cherry wood, the wood beautifully %\0DVDQDRVLJQHG0DVDQDR patinated, and depicting two rabbits (usagi). A charming Japan, Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) composition – the young is nestling up to the adult, the latter has its crisply carved paw placed firmly placed on the young’s back. The KDLUZRUNLVPLQXWHO\LQFLVHGDQGFKDUDFWHULVWLFDOO\ZRUQ%RWKKDYH A fine wood manju netsuke of oval shape, densely carved with finely carved long ears and the eyes are inlaid in semi-translucent a celestial dragon, its eyes inlaid in dark horn, amidst swirling pale horn. The underside shows the well-carved paws and partially clouds. The manju is carved all over with the scaly winding body worn signature IKKAN Ăᆇ. of a dragon (tatsu) intertwining with the crisply carved clouds, the claws emerging from the thicket. The amount of detail is almost HEIGHT 3.1 cm, LENGTH 3.7 cm overwhelming. Himotoshi through the back between one of the superbly carved claws, next to the signature in a polished reserve Condition: Good, characteristically worn condition. The edge of one MASANAO Ȣˢ. A masterpiece from Masanao of Ise-Yamada, who front paw of the young with an old, worn down chip to the edge. rarely carved dragons. Provenance: Hungarian collection. LENGTH 4.5 cm Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- Condition: Excellent condition. 3URYHQDQFH %ULWLVKFROOHFWLRQ Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 96 97 110 | AN EARLY POWERFUL IVORY MANJU NETSUKE WITH DRAGON Unsigned Japan, early to mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An ivory manju netsuke covered in a beautiful deep honey patina and depicting a very Chinese dragon amidst stylized clouds. The sinuous body of the dragon curls around, forming the rim of the manju and terminating in a bifurcated tail on the reverse. Large, asymmetrical and generous himotoshi through the backside. DIAMETER 4.4 cm Condition: Very good age-related condition with stunning patina and few natural age cracks. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Like no. 101, this netsuke belongs to the group of rare and early manju netsuke, largely inspired by Chinese motifs. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 111 | MINSEI: A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A CONFRONTING DRAGON AND TIGER %\0LQVHLVLJQHG0LQVHL 112 | A SPECTACULAR WALNUT NETSUKE Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) OF A DRAGON AND TIGER Unsigned Carved from a triangular piece of ivory and depicting a tiger (tora) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) and dragon (tatsu) fiercely confronting each other. The scaly body of the dragon, with emanating flames on the sides, curls over the tiger’s body. The composition is set on a base, with one What a feat to carve a whole walnut (kurumi) in this way! Carved half resembling the ground with carved rockwork, and the other all around in relief with an image of a dragon and tiger. One resembling the sky with a swirling cloud pattern. The underside with side shows the dragon (tatsu) amidst swirling reishi clouds. The small himotoshi and signature MINSEI ΦȢ%HDXWLIXOJORVV\KRQH\ other side shows the tiger beneath a bamboo tree (take no tora), patina. the branches and bamboo leaves are minutely carved with an astonishing amount of detail – almost coming to life right before HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cm our eyes. The tiger is shown with good curvature, looking towards the other side, ready to confront the dragon. Next to the tiger is Condition: One old and smoothed out, miniscule loss to the edge of a rock, with further finely carved leaves emerging from the side. the right front paw of the tiger. Otherwise excellent condition with a Ringed himotoshi on the underside. very appealing patina. Provenance: Hungarian collection. HEIGHT 4 cm %RWKWKHWLJHUDQGGUDJRQKDYHLPSRUWDQWPHDQLQJVLQ%XGGKLVW Condition: There is some damage around the himotoshi and and Taoist philosophy, together representing the yin and yang, the smaller natural nicks and scratches throughout. There are two earth and sky or the male and female. Furthermore, they represent larger holes, which appear like insect bites on the side of a dragon strength, resilience and courage. The tiger and dragon motif has with another on the side of the tiger. The damages are nothing out been used frequently in ancient China, decorating amongst others of the ordinary for kurumi netsuke. ornate jades of the Han-dynasty. Provenance: Czech private collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 600,- 98 99 SNAKE / HEBI The snake (hebi) is the sixth sign of the zodiac. For Buddhists the snake is a symbol of female voluptuousness, jealousy and hatred. 114 | MITSUNAGA: AN EXCELLENT IVORY NETSUKE OF A COILED SNAKE 113 | A GOOD IVORY NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON By Mitsunaga, signed Mitsunaga Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A compact, powerful and naturalistic model of a coiled snake, its body forming a knot, and its head placed on top, lurking, and fixing An unusual model of a coiled dragon, powerfully carved, its body its eyes on some sort of prey, its tongue greedily extended. The winding, the crisply carved claws shown on the sides of this dense scales are masterfully carved, and the glaring eyes are double inlaid scaly bundle. The dragon’s head is placed on top of its coiling body, in mother of pearl with horn pupils. The himotoshi formed through like a snake, alert and ready to strike. The celestial being lets out a the s-shaped end-section of the tail on the underside and the snarl, its pupils are minutely inlaid in dark horn and the long flaming signature MITSUNAGA ʾǣ in a rounded reserve. beard flows down its body. The ivory is of a very good color with a fine glossy patina. The underside with large, generous and well- HEIGHT 3.2 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cm placed himotoshi. Condition: Excellent condition. HEIGHT 2.6 cm, LENGTH 4.2 cm Provenance: French private collection. Condition: Fine condition with expected age cracks. From the quality and power of this study, it is plausible that this Provenance: French private collection. could be a pupil of Mitsuharu of Kyoto. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 100 101 115 | AN EXCELLENT WOOD NETSUKE 116 | SARI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A FROG WITH SNAKE, SANSUKUMI OF A COILED SNAKE Unsigned By Sari, signed Sari Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Iwashiro, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerful and large netsuke depicting a coiled snake (hebi), its Finely carved as a coiled snake, the scales minutely incised. The body winding around forming a thick dense bundle and the scales snake (hebi) is in an alert position, its head placed on the bundle masterfully carved. In its mouth it has caught the leg of a poor frog created by its winding body. The eyes are double inlaid in pale and (kaeru), which struggles to break free, clambering and visibly in dark horn, typical for the artist. Natural himotoshi and signature ,ƀ in a rounded reserve. A very pleasing and compact pieceڽ terror as its eyes are wide open. The wood shows a beautiful patina, SARI accentuated with black lacquer for effect. Natural himotoshi. displaying a good sense of naturalism. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 5.3 cm, WIDTH 4 cm HEIGHT 3 cm Condition: Very good condition, the black lacquer is very slightly Condition: Excellent condition worn in some areas consistent with handling. Provenance: French private collection. Provenance: European collection. Literature comparison: For another coiled snake by Sari or possibly Literature comparison: Compare to a very similar example in Barry even the same netsuke see MCI page 703. Davies Oriental Art, Netsuke from the Teddy Hahn Collection, Auction comparison: For another coiled snake by Sari see Sotheby’s, London, 1996, no. 110. The Katchen Collection of Netsuke Part II, 13 July 2006, London, lot 301. Also pictured in Katchen Netsue 7, K338. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 102 103 HORSE / UMA The horse (uma) is the seventh sign of the zodiac and is seen as an emblem of virility and endurance. 117 | A LARGE AND RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A GRAZING HORSE Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Standing on unusually long and thin legs with its hooves placed tightly together, the horse (uma) is lowering its head in order to graze. One wonders how these frail legs can hold the bulky body of the horse. The skin folds are powerfully accentuated, and the dynamic of the horse’s movement is achieved elegantly. The long neck is covered in a finely carved mane, the expression is sensitively crafted with raised alert ears. Beautiful patina to the backside and the himotoshi cleverly formed by an opening of the swinging tail. HEIGHT 9.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks and very good patina. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection purchased for 13.000 EUR at a Netsuke Convention, by repute. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 104 105 118 | A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A GRAZING HORSE Unsigned 120 | A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT 121 | A VERY RARE BAMBOO NETSUKE Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) HORSE IN THE MANNER OF TAMETAKA OF TWO HORSES Unsigned, in the manner of Tametaka Unsigned Similar to the next no. 119, however carved from wood and thus Japan, Nagoya, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) considerably rarer. Furthermore, the netsuke is slightly larger and (1615-1868) the horse (uma) crosses its legs behind its head, lending movement to the composition. The wood is of a very good color and shows a Carved from bamboo and depicting two horses, arranged in a circle fine patina. The mane and facial features are very well carved. Large The horse is lying with its head lowered and turned back to the and courting each other. The typical inclusions of the bamboo himotoshi through the backside. right, the body forming a circle with splendid curvature, and the appear almost like inlays of mother of pearl, covering the entire legs and swinging tail drawn in, forming a compact composition. piece. Natural himotoshi through the finely carved legs. HEIGHT 5.5 cm The horse is resting on its front legs, has a finely carved mane, pointed ears, and a face very much in the manner of Tametaka. HEIGHT 3.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with fine patina. Miniscule wear. The eyes are not inlaid, and the expression is charming – the Provenance: European collection. features minimalistic, but powerful. The underside shows Condition: Very good condition. generous, large asymmetrical himotoshi. Fine, dark patina, Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- again suggestive of Tametaka of Nagoya. Starting price EUR 600,- Bamboo netsuke are extremely rare, especially figural examples of HEIGHT 2.3 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cm this quality. Condition: Very good condition, one minor restored nick to the Literature comparison: The composition is similar to a wood 119 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A GRAZING HORSE edge of one knee. netsuke of two horses by Ryukei in the British museum, Registration Provenance: European collection. no. HG.735. Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Auction comparison: For a comparable horse by Tametaka Estimate EUR 800,- see Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 Starting price EUR 400,- November 2011, London, lot 148. Of ideal netsuke shape, the backside slightly flattened, and depicting the classic 18th century model of the grazing horse with Estimate EUR 1.200,- its head and neck lowered. The ivory is smooth and shows a good Starting price EUR 600,- patina, honey orange in the back. The mane is finely carved, and 122 | A SMALL IVORY SEAL NETSUKE OF A HORSE the legs are drawn together for compactness. Large asymmetrical himotoshi through the backside, above the horse’s swinging tail. Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) HEIGHT 5.2 cm Condition: Excellent condition with expected age cracks. Minutely carved as a small functional ivory seal (ingyo) netsuke, Provenance: European collection. in the form of a horse with an arched back and a bushy mane, facing downwards. The underside shows the seal with remnants Estimate EUR 1.200,- of red seal paste. Natural himotoshi. An early netsuke covered in a Starting price EUR 600,- beautiful honey patina. HEIGHT 2.6 cm Condition: Very good, undamaged condition with some wear to ivory and a beautiful patina. Provenance: French private collection, purchased from Christie’s, Asian Decorative Arts, 12 February 2004, London, lot 24. Formerly in the collection of the Strong Museum, Rochester NY, with old museum number 78.9752. Estimate EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 300,- 106 107 SHEEP / HITSUJI The eighth sign of the Zodiac, the sheep (hitsuji) 124 | A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF is commonly depicted in Japanese as a goat. A GOAT BY MITSUHARU By Mitsuharu, signed Tomotada Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615- 1868) A fine netsuke imbued with a healthy portion of humor, depicting a goat with masterfully carved shaggy fur. The goat has its head turned backwards, the body is dynamically positioned with the feet pushed afore, exhibiting splendid curvature and movement, so typical for Mitsuharu. Lots 102 and 235 show the same dynamic posture. The goat is smiling – the expression is vivid and amusing – and it has its mouth opened showing the canines, another idiosyncracy of Mitsuharu. The eyes are inlaid in dark buffalo horn. Deep himotoshi through the underside and side, and signature TOMOTADA Ƥฑ in an oval reserve on the right haunch. HEIGHT 4.7 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor expected wear to ivory. Possibly some minor damage to the lower row of the teeth. Provenance: British collection. Though signed Tomotada, this goat is certainly by Mitsuharu. For a discussion on Mitsuharu’s goats see International Netsuke Society Journal, Volume 39, No. 1, pages 13-14. This example is particularly close to no. 8. Auction comparison: For an almost identical example by Mitsuharu see Zacke, Japanische Netsuke, Inro und andere Sagemono - Ausstellung 1986, Vienna, no. 38. For another goat by Mitsuharu in a different manner see Bonhams, The James A. Rose Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 17 September 2013, New York, lot 2014. Estimate EUR 5.000,- Starting price EUR 2.500,- 123 | A FINE KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A GOAT WITH DAIKON Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A beautifully compact composition of a goat with its head raised and resting both its front legs on a daikon radish. The goat has a vivid expression imbued with charm and character. The eyes are inlaid with lustrous dark horn. The entire netsuke is carved all around with superior detail. The shaggy fur of the goat is masterfully worked, as are the horns and curly beard. The leaves from the smooth daikon complement the goat’s fur very well. The underside with crisply carved hooves and well-placed himotoshi. Superb patina. HEIGHT 3.7 cm, LENGTH 3.7 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Beautiful patina. Provenance: European private collection. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke of a goat with tree trunk sold by Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 2 June 2018, Vienna, lot 24. Estimate EUR 5.000,- Starting price EUR 2.500,- 108 109 125 | KOKEI: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A GOAT 126 | MINKO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A GOAT By Kokei, signed Kokei By Tanaka Minko (1735-1816), signed Minko with kakihan Japan, Kuwana, Ise province, early 19th century, Edo period Japan, Tsu, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) (1615-1868) A fine wood netsuke of a recumbent goat, its legs drawn in for A fine and naturalistic wood netsuke of a goat from the famous compactness, with its head raised and slightly turned to the left. artist Kokei with finely carved fur and horns creating a three- The goat has a charming expression with a gentle smile and eyes dimensional effect. The goat has a characteristic chin beard and a inlaid in brass, typical for the artist. The hairwork is masterful long swinging tail. The underside shows its legs tucked under the and shows an uneven surface which naturalistically resembles body, with exquisitely carved hooves. Natural himotoshi through the shaggy fur of the goat. The surface is worn from centuries the legs and the signature located in a polished reserve KOKEI থ၇ of handling, giving the netsuke a unique appeal, both tactile and on the underside. visually. The underside shows the male genitalia and crisply carved hooves. Signature MINKO ẛե and kakihan in a rounded reserve HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 4.2 cm on one of the haunches. Natural himotoshi. Condition: Signs of age and wear with some nicks to the wood with HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 4.7 cm a larger imperfection to one cheek – otherwise good, complete condition. Condition: The wood is beautifully worn, showing a fine patina. Provenance: British private collection. Excellent condition. Provenance: Josette and Theo Schulmann collection. Acquired Kokei is assumed to have been a pupil of Minko, however became ca. 1970. Josette and Théo Schulmann were passionate dealers independent and was a prolific worker, his work showing even of Asian Art and have donated several important works to the affinities to the Nagoya school or Masanao from Ise-Yamada. Cernuschi Museum. It is easy to see why he became independent, as he possessed considerable carving ability and managed to portray a sense of Tanaka Minko (1735-1816) was the founder of the important Tsu superior naturalism in his work, without losing any individuality. His school and one of the few names mentioned in the Soken Kisho goats are probably his most recognizable work. from 1781. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Auction comparison: Another Minko goat from the same collection Starting price EUR 1.500,- was sold at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, 10 May 2017, London, lot 93. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 110 111 MONKEY / SARU The monkey (saru) is the ninth sign of the zodiac and used to be considered to dispel ill will, ease births and be a messenger to the gods. 127 | MASATAMI: IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EXAMINING AN INSECT By Masatami, signed Masatami Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) 129 | SHUZAN: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF FOUR MONKEYS AND CHESTNUT An ivory netsuke of a seated monkey holding a persimmon between By Shuzan, signed Shuzan two paws, the leafy branch carved up the side of the monkey. On Japan, mid- 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) top of the persimmon (kaki) sits a little insect, with tiny eyes inlaid in horn, which the monkey curiously examines through a magnifying glass. His deeply focused anthropomorphic expression with inked An animated study of a large male monkey holding a chestnut while and inlaid squinting eyes is quite amusing. Natural himotoshi and his offspring are climbing around at his side and over his body. signature in a square reserve MASATAMI ȢΦ (Shomin). Two young monkeys are next to the father, one atop another and the third one is on the other side on his back. The father seems HEIGHT 3.2 cm exhausted, exhaling with a grotesque expression, the large eyes with pupils inlaid in dark horn. In contrast, the young monkeys are Condition: Good condition with thin age cracks. The magnifying enjoying themselves. Finely carved and stained details – particularly glass is replaced. fine and precise hairwork. Signature SHUZAN ̠ͪ in a rounded Provenance: Belgian Private Collection. reserve on the right thigh of the adult monkey. Natural himotoshi. A classic model by the artist, though almost always missing the HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 4 cm magnifying glass, which in this case is thankfully added. Condition: Excellent condition. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Provenance: European collection. Starting price EUR 750,- Literature comparison: Compare to a similar monkey signed Shuzan in H. Goodall, The Raymond and Frances Bushell Collection of Netsuke, A Legacy at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, p. 361, no.556. Currently at the LACMA, accession no. M.91.250.291. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 130 | MASATOMO: AN IVORY NETSUKE 128 | MASANOBU: A CHARMING WOOD NETSUKE OF A MONKEY WITH HUGE CHESTNUT OF TWO MONKEY WITH PEACHES By Masatomo, signed Masatomo By Masanobu, signed Masanobu Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) An ivory netsuke of a monkey climbing upon a huge chestnut, Carved from a reddish wood and depicting an adult monkey peeling off a section of the skin. The size proportions of the netsuke holding its young by the hand, while the completely carefree young are quite amusing, as the monkey struggles, almost falling off is relishing a peach. Meanwhile the adult monkey is carrying a huge the unrealistically huge chestnut. The fur of the monkey is finely peach over his back, tied to a finely carved robe, and is looking incised, and the surface treatment of the chestnut is naturalistically grimly. The eyes are double inlaid in pale reddish and dark horn. achieved. The lightly stained ivory has developed a beautiful Neatly incised hairwork. Himotoshi ringed in horn through the yellowish patina with honey hues. The underside with deep monkey’s back and signature MASANOBU ȢƱ on the underside of himotoshi and the signature MASATOMO ȢƤ in a wavy reserve to the leafy peach. the right of the monkey. HEIGHT 3.8 cm HEIGHT 2.4 cm, LENGTH 4.7 cm Condition: One tiny repair to the edge of the young monkey’s foot. Condition: Excellent condition with expected age cracks and wear. Otherwise excellent condition. Good patina. Provenance: European collection. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 600,- 112 113 131 | MASATSUGU: A VERY RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY PLAYING THE PIFFERO Workshop of Kaigyokusai Masatsugu (1813-1892), signed Masatsugu Japan, Osaka, second half of 19th century Monkeys from the workshop of the great Osaka carver Kaigyokusai Masatsugu are unmistakable. As in the present example, they have vivid expressions enhanced by inlaid eyes of amber with dark pupils, fine hairwork and superbly carved limbs with bony knuckles. Fine examples exist signed Masatsugu or Kaigyoku, though this incredibly rare ivory netsuke is the only example known of a monkey playing the piffero. The visibly delighted anthropomorphic monkey is shown blowing into the instrument tightly gripped with the bony knuckles of its four limbs. Signed MASATSUGU Ȣơ in a polished rounded reserve. Natural himotoshi. HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cm Condition: Very good condition, the hairwork is slightly worn. Provenance: Acquired by Vito Taverna from Eskenazi Ltd on 19 July 1979 for 600.000 Italian Lira. Copy of the inventory sheet is available. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke of a monkey by the same workshop sold at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part II, 10 May 2017, London, lot 112. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 114 115 132 | A STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF THREE MONKEYS 135 | HIDEMASA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) By Hidemasa, signed Hidemasa Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved as a large recumbent mother monkey with her two young, one climbing up on her side and the other seated behind her. The Depicting a seated male monkey, its body shape in a contorted stag antler is finely stained and the hairwork is meticulous. The position, holding one of its feet. The monkey has a focused use of material is superb, as the natural spongiform surface of the expression, looking forward, his eyes with inlaid pupils and the material is barely visible, and at first glance the material appears to mouth tinted red. The ivory is lightly stained and the fine hairwork be ivory. Large himotoshi through the underside. is characteristically worn in some areas. Natural himotoshi and signature HIDEMASA লȢ in an oval reserve. HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 5 cm HEIGHT 3.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: European collection. Condition: The ivory is worn. Very good condition. Provenance: French private collection, purchased from Piasa in Estimate EUR 1.000,- 2006. Starting price EUR 500,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 133 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY EATING A FRUIT Unsigned Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Depicting a seated monkey, very much resembling a koala, with finely engraved fur and eating a fruit. His eyes with pupils inlaid in dark horn are looking down, focused on his food. He has unusually long clawed limbs, and his two feet are joined, forming the natural himotoshi. HEIGHT 3.4 cm Condition: Very good condition with age-related wear. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 136 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF THE SANBIKI SARU Unsigned 134 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) REACHING FOR A FRUIT Unsigned Carved as three monkeys arranged in a circle, one covering its ears Japan, second half of 19th century (Kikazaru), another covering its mouth (Iwazaru) and also covering the eyes of the last monkey (Mizaru). They represent the three wise monkeys, a famous pictorial maxim, embodying the proverbial Depicting a cheerful monkey (saru), stretching himself, one leg lifted principle ‘see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil’. Their pupils are and reaching for a fruit with his long arm. The fur is carved very inlaid in dark horn. Mizaru is holding a peach, with another leafy well, minutely incised, stained and inked. Large himotoshi through peach branch carved next to him. The underside shows the many the back. The carving shows similarities with Seigyoku. feet and good, asymmetrical himotoshi. HEIGHT 6.9 cm HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cm Condition: Good condition with expected age cracks. Condition: Very good condition. The ivory slightly worn. Provenance: European collection. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- Starting price EUR 500,- 116 117 ROOSTER / TORI The cockerel or rooster (tori) is the tenth animal in the zodiac and a symbol of potency and power. 139 | ISSAI: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A COCKEREL By Issai, signed Issai Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely carved as a long-tailed cockerel (nagatori) perched on a branch. The cockerel has its head turned backwards, the visible eye beautifully inlaid in pale horn, and the long flaring tail feathers exhibiting beautiful curvature touch the branch on which the bird sits on. The plumage and feathers are beautifully carved and accentuated. The work immediately reminds one of Toyomasa and the Tanba school, and in fact similar examples exist (see auction comparison). Another stylistically close carver is Hokyudo Itsumin. Natural himotoshi and signature ISSAI Ă in a raised and rounded reserve, the character Sai abbreviated. 137 | A FINE NETSUKE OF A COCKEREL ON A DRUM HEIGHT 3.3 cm Unsigned Condition: Excellent condition. Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Provenance: French private collection. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar cockerel signed In this netsuke the bird with masterfully carved and dense plumage, Toyomasa sold at Christie’s, Art of Japan, 5 December 2017, is standing proudly on the drum. Its head is turned, and the London, lot 3. beautifully carved long tail feathers form an elegant curve. The drum is smooth on the top and bottom, with a wood grain pattern Estimate EUR 1.800,- engraved on the sides, as well as inlaid dark-red horn buttons Starting price EUR 900,- arranged in two rows. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside. HEIGHT 5 cm Condition: Very good, slightly worn condition with a beautiful patina. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 138 | MUNEMITSU: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A COCKEREL By Munemitsu, signed Munemitsu Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely carved and stained as a long-tailed cockerel, also known as a nagatori. The long feathery tail, almost like that of a phoenix, curls around, over the back and underneath, forming the base on which the cockerel sits on. The expression is powerful with inlaid eyes of red horn. The crisply carved, clenched and clawed foot is visible to its side. Himotoshi and signature MUNEMITSU ʾඐ on the underside. HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 4.1 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor imperfections to the material behind the cockerel’s head. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 118 119 DOG / INU The dog (inu) is the eleventh sign of the zodiac and a symbol of good health. 142 | TOMONOBU: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A BITCH AND TWO PUPS By Tomonobu, signed Tomonobu Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A charming study of a reclining bitch with two pups, one nestling up to her underneath her head and the other climbing onto her back. The wood of a very good color, with a fine dark red hue, especially visible on the underside. Signature TOMONOBU ƤƱ next to the udders of the female dog on the underside. 140 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A LARGE DOG LENGTH 4.5 cm Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Condition: One leg of the reclining puppy is chipped. Otherwise good condition. Provenance: British private collection. A large ivory netsuke of a male dog with a charming expression, protruding floppy ears, an elongated snout and inlaid eyes of dark Probably the Tomonobu mentioned as from the Tomochika school, horn. The dog is seated with amusingly long legs and an elegantly however the tone of the wood could suggest Nagoya school, which curling tail. The fur is neatly incised and characteristically worn. could make it a very unusual subject by Arima Tomonobu. Beautiful yellowish patina to the backside. Himotoshi through the under- and backside, forming a long and deep channel. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- HEIGTH 5.7 cm Condition: The two hindfeet are professionally restored. Otherwise good condition, characteristically worn. 143 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A BITCH AND PUP Provenance: European collection. Unsigned Estimate EUR 1.500,- Japan, probably Nagoya, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Starting price EUR 750,- Carved as a Pekingese female dog with beautifully rendered shaggy fur, licking her young which nestles up to her. The wood is of a very good tone with hues of chestnut red and chocolate brown. The contrast between the dense fur of the mother and the smooth pup 141 | HIDEKAZU: A WOOD NETSUKE is achieved very well, and both mother and young have charming OF TUBBY PUPPY WITH BELL expressions. Himotoshi through the belly of the mother. HEIGHT 3.5 cm, LENGTH 5 cm By Hidekazu, signed Hidekazu Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: European collection. The wood netsuke depicts chubby puppy with a very humorous Estimate EUR 2.000,- expression. Around its neck is a thick collar tied up in the back, to Starting price EUR 1.000,- which a bell is attached in the front. Inlaid eyes of pale translucent horn. Signature HIDEKAZU লĂ on one foot on the underside next to the himotoshi. HEIGHT 2.6 cm Condition: The tail is reattached with its tip missing. Otherwise in good condition. Provenance: British private collection stored in a bank vault for 40 years, collection no. 118. Estimate EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 300,- 120 121 144 | OKATOMO: AN EXCELLENT AND RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHAGGY DOG By Yamaguchi Okatomo, signed Okatomo Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part B, New York, 1986, page 620. An ivory netsuke of a dog with shaggy fur, finely carved with overlapping wavy lines creating a stunning three-dimensional effect. The visibly male dog is seated with its four paws close together and is looking to the right with its head slightly lowered. The eyes are inlaid in red horn and the dog produces an enigmatic smile full of character. Himotoshi through the side and underside and signature in a rectangular reserve on the left hindleg OKATOMO ᛂƤ. HEIGHT 3.4 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: Louis Gonse, Paris, sold in his sale 19th April 1926, lot 857. Then European private collection. The present netsuke is a completely unique subject by Okatomo, imbued with all the individual character and charm which he is known for. Auction comparison: For the treatment of the fur, see a goat by Okatori sold by Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 140. For another dog by Okatomo see Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 157. Estimate EUR 12.000,- Starting price EUR 6.000,- 122 123 145 | A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A BITCH AND PUP BY OKATOMO By Yamaguchi Okatomo, signed Tomotada Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Boldly carved as a reclining female dog with her young nestling up to her. The pup faces in the other direction and scratches its chin, while the mother protectively curls around him. The hairwork is typically masterful and characteristically worn, and the features, such as the expressed spine and shoulder bones, are powerfully executed. The eyes of the mother are inlaid with dark horn. The underside shows the many paws, large asymmetrical himotoshi and signature TOMOTADA Ƥฑ in a rectangular reserve. HEIGHT 2.3 cm, LENGTH 4.1 cm Condition: Expected age cracks and wear to ivory. One horn pupil is replaced. The underside shows a deep honey-patina. The edge of the tail shows a crack and some discoloration and is probably restored. Literature comparison: For another netsuke of a bitch and pup, Provenance: British collection. the pup facing away like in the present netsuke, was sold at Sotheby’s, 30 June 1975, lot 37 and illustrated in the journal of the Although the netsuke is signed Tomotada, it is more likely the International Netsuke Collector’s Society, vol.3, no. 3, page 14. work of Yamaguchi Okatomo – the expression and curling of the tail being idiosyncrasies of the artist. Some of the best works by Estimate EUR 7.000,- Okatomo are in fact signed Tomotada. Starting price EUR 3.500,- 124 125 BOAR / INOSHISHI The boar (inoshishi) is the twelfth sign of the zodiac, is considered the bravest of the animals and also symbolizes daredevilry. It is also called yamakujira, or “mountain whale”. 146 | NANBOKU: AN EXCELLENT AND RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A BOAR By Nanboku, signed Nanboku Japan, Tanba, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The boar is seated with one hoof slightly raised and with its head and snout lifted upwards, about to emit a bellowing roar. Its eyes are double inlaid in dark and semi-translucent pale horn in typical Tanba style, giving the boar a wild and enigmatic expression. The hairwork is executed masterfully and the wood is typically darkened and accentuated for effect. Turning the netsuke reveals the legs and hooves, which have a delightful dark patina, and are as the rest of the piece carved crisply. Excellent asymmetrical himotoshi and signature NANBOKU ϒ҂ in a rounded reserve. HEIGHT 3.8 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cm Condition: The left front leg with a well-done professional restoration. Otherwise excellent condition with a beautiful patina. Provenance: Formerly Katherine Matthies collection, sold at Sotheby’s New York, 25th May 1989, lot 53. Then European private collection. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke by Toyomasa sold by Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Nanboku was a talented carver from the Tanba school, arguably Netsuke, 10 May 2017, lot 135. even surpassing his master Naito Toyomasa in quality of execution. This is evident when comparing the netsuke of a boar by Toyomasa Estimate EUR 10.000,- in the Katchen collection (see literature comparison). Starting price EUR 5.000,- 126 127 SENNIN, CHINESE INFLUENCE & IMMORTALS 147 | GYOKUHOSAI RYUCHIN: 148 | KAGETOSHI: A RARE IVORY A FINE SQUARE RYUSA IVORY NETSUKE OF TEKKAI SENNIN MANJU NETSUKE OF THE JUNISHI By Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi By Gyokuhosai Ryuchin, signed Ryuchin Japan, Kyoto, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Illustrated in The Meinertzhagen Card Index on Tekkai Sennin is standing leaning on his cane and pressing his lips Netsuke in the Archives of the British Museum Part B, Frederick together, about to blow out his soul in order to rise to the heavens Meinertzhagen (edited by George Lazarnick), New York, 1986, page (where he would have a chat with the famous philosopher Lao Zi). 662. His Sennin cloak is elaborately worked with many mugwort leaves intricately carved at the back. He wears a Hyotan tied to his obi and one of his flowing sleeves curls around and cleverly forms the The twelve animals of the Zodiac (junishi) are neatly arranged and himotoshi. Signature in a rectangular reserve KAGETOSHI բϙ. delicately carved. Each animal is imbued with individual charm, wit Beautiful honey patina. and character. The tiger (tora) is snarling at the dragon (tatsu) and on the other side the monkey (saru) is pulling on the horse (uma). HEIGHT 5 cm The manju is entirely openworked, also on the sides where the snake (hebi) can be found. Signed on the horse, next to the florally Condition: The left foot is restored, otherwise very good condition. .kakihan. Provenance: British collection + ܤ rimmed himotoshi, RYUCHIN SIZE 3 x 3 x 1.5 cm (H x L x W) Kagetoshi is best known for his intricate designs in sukashi-bori. Figural netsuke are rare by this artist, and probably earlier works, Condition: Generally, in very good condition; one old chip to one of though his talent for intricate carving on a small space is already the dragon’s whiskers (visible in the illustration in MCI, page 662). evident in this netsuke. Provenance: Collection of F. Meinertzhagen, published in MCI, then S.L. Moss Exhibition, no. 116, 15.11.1974, subsequently acquired by Estimate EUR 3.000,- Vito Taverna from Eskenazi Ltd. on 22.11.1974. (Copy of the invoice Starting price EUR 1.500,- is available). Gyokuhosai Ryuchin was regarded by Meinertzhagen as one of the most brilliant netsuke carvers of his time. His designs were original and often displayed his superior use of sukashi-bori (openwork technique). Auction comparison: Compare to a very similar ivory manju netsuke by Ryuchin sold at Van Ham, Netsuke & Japanische Kunst, 8 June 2018, Cologne, lot 1666. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 128 129 150 | A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A SENNIN WITH MONKEY Unsigned Japan, early to mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A slender and rather tall ivory netsuke of a Sennin holding a monkey (saru). The monkey is small and tugging on the beard of the Sennin, who is wearing the characteristic mugwort leafcloak, adorned with swirling clouds. He is holding a taming stick in his left hand. Probably he is the precursor to the peddling sarumawashi (monkey trainer). The ivory has taken on a beautiful golden honey patina over many years of handling. Very good himotoshi in the back. HEIGHT 8.3 cm Condition: Very good condition, expected minor age cracks. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 149 | TOMOTADA: A RARE KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF URASHIMA TARO Signed Tomotada Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerful study of a very Sennin-like Urashima Taro holding a minogame by its long straw coat tail, next to his face, slightly flinching as one claw of the mythical animal touches his forehead. His finely carved robe is flowing and engraved with designs of clouds. The backside shows Urashima wearing a long straw coat cape like the minogame. Spots of honey patina and large himotoshi through the back and the signature TOMOTADA Ƥฑ on the hem of the robe. HEIGHT 7.4 cm Condition: Very good original condition, the ivory slightly worn. Provenance: British collection acquired at Sotheby’s, Japanese Works of Art, Prints and Paintings, 20 June 2002, London, lot 517. Other than the spuriously engraved signature this appears to be an authentic work by Tomotada, or a close-by hand. Stylistically and quality-wise it certainly holds up to other rare figural works by the artist. Compare for example to a figure of Chokaro Sennin by Tomotada in F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part B, New York, 1986, page 912. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 130 131 151 | A MASSIVE IVORY NETSUKE 152 | AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA OF GAMA SENNIN SENNIN ATTRIBUTED TO MASAKAZU Unsigned Unsigned, attributed to Masakazu Japan, late 19th century to Meiji period (1868-1912) Japan, Kyoto, early to mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A very large ivory netsuke with heavy okimono character Gama Sennin is shown straining under the weight of the huge toad depicting Gama Sennin, carved with a superior sense of on his back, which is arched as he tries to hold its weight, holding realism. He is standing barefoot in a dancing posture, on to a limb with each of his hands. Finely carved details with with one foot raised above the other, and his toes long flowing sleeves and a very amusing facial expression of the slightly curved inwards. He is supporting a massive toad, Sennin. The toad with an expressively carved warty skin and large with large inlaid eyes, on his back with one hand and inlaid eyes of reddish horn. Natural himotoshi through an opening holding a small toad in the other. His face is carved in a between one leg of the toad and the Sennin’s arm. portrait-like manner with inlaid eyes, a sensitively crafted nose and an opened mouth with minutely carved teeth. HEIGHT 5.8 cm The sennin’s robe is flowing with finely carved patterns of clouds and vines. Very good angled himotoshi through Condition: Very good condition, with very minor age cracks and a the back, between the trailing leg of the larger toad. good patina. Provenance: British collection. HEIGHT 12.5 cm Literature comparison: Compare with a signed Masakazu, in which Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks Gama lies on top of a huge toad, in Barker and Smith, Netsuke, the and minor imperfections. Miniature Sculpture of Japan, British Museum, p. 27, no. 5. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Gama Sennin is derived from the Chinese immortal Liu Starting price EUR 750,- Hai who is depicted with the ‘three legged money toad’. Estimate EUR 5.000,- Starting price EUR 2.500,- 153 | YOSHITOMO: A TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF GAMA SENNIN By Yoshitomo, signed Yoshitomo Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Gama Sennin is shown in a dancing posture with one foot raised above the other, holding a fruiting peach branch and with a three- legged toad, with large inlaid eyes, on his back. His Sennin cloak is finely engraved with cloud patterns and mugwort leaves are visible in the back. The Sennin has a good expression with a wide- eyed smile, typical for the Yoshi school of Kyoto. Beautiful yellow patina in the back as well as large himotoshi beside the signature YOSHITOMO Ƥ in a rectangular reserve. HEIGHT 8.1 cm Condition: Very good condition, slight wear to one foot and expected age cracks. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 132 133 154 | A TALL WOOD NETSUKE 156 | A TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF OF GAMA SENNIN A SENNIN WITH TAMA Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Gama Sennin is standing tall holding a cane with both hands in A large and finely carved netsuke of a standing and bare chested front of him. A large, finely carved toad is perched on his shoulder, Sennin clenching one fist in front of his chest and holding a tama curiously raising its head. As usual, Gama Sennin is laughing intently (magical pearl) up resting on his shoulder. He has a trifurcated with his eyes almost closed. He is wearing a robe, leaving his right beard and a powerful expression with an opened mouth, raised shoulder and arm bare, as well as his chest. He is shown emaciated brows and glaring eyes which look upwards to the heavenly skies. in the truest sense of a mountain hermit. A large hyotan (double The folds of his robes are carved expressively, gourd) is tied to his obi at the back and the good himotoshi are as are his long hair and cleverly placed with one ‘hidden’ in his flowing sleeve fold. Beautiful mugwort leaf cloak. The patina and grain to the wood. entire netsuke is covered in a beautiful honey patina. HEIGHT 9.4 cm Large himotoshi through the back. Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: British private collection. HEIGHT 9.8 cm Estimate EUR 1.200,- Condition: Very good Starting price EUR 600,- condition with excellent patina. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 155 | A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF 157 | A TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A SENNIN A SENNIN WITH PHEASANT Unsigned Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A fine ivory netsuke of a standing Sennin holding a large gourd Depicting a standing Sennin wearing a mugwort leaf cloak, with over his back, tied together and held in place with his left hand. In finely carved and dense leaves. The Sennin has his back arched, the other hand he holds a basket (presumably) filled with peaches. probably due to the natural dictation of the material used, and his Both are symbols for immortality and could identify this Sennin head is turned to the left, as he is laughing heartily. He is holding as either Tobosaku or Chokaro. The Sennin has long hair and a a pheasant in his left hand and is visibly delighted by this unlikely trifurcated beard. The angular himotoshi are found in the back companionship. Angular himotoshi through the back. where the typical mugwort leaves of the Sennin’s cloak are visible just beneath his obi. The mountain hermit looks up to his right HEIGHT 7.3 cm towards the heavenly sky, screaming with a beautifully crafted enigmatic expression. Condition: Worn condition with some discoloration. Possibly an old tiny chip to the edge of the bird’s tail feathers. Generally, in good HEIGHT 8 cm condition commensurate with age and handling. Provenance: British collection. Condition: Very good condition. Amazingly the feet are completely undamaged. Good, yellowish patina and very few natural age This depiction of a Sennin with pheasant appears to be very rare, cracks. The once inked pupils have been slightly worn. possibly even unique. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 750,- 134 135 159 | AN INLAID EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A CHINESE SAGE ATTRIBUTED TO HASEGAWA IKKO Unsigned, attributed to Hasegawa Ikko Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Depicting a bearded Chinese sage, his mugwort-leaf cloak carved from ebony and his face, hands and feet inlaid in ivory. The sage is looking downwards laughing, his expression is sensitively carved. The cloak has a smooth rustic feel to it, the sleeves are long and drape towards the ground. The backside shows the wonderful himotoshi, one significantly larger and worn. Unsigned, however attributed to Hasegawa Ikko, one of the most influential netsukeshi of the 19th century. HEIGHT 7.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition, the larger himotoshi shows some wear indicating this netsuke was worn. Provenance: European collection. Auction comparison: For a similar netsuke by Hasegawa Ikko see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 13 September 2011, New York, lot 2021. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 158 | YOSHINAGA: AN UNUSUAL TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A CHINESE LITERATI WITH BOY By Miura Yoshinaga, signed Yoshinaga HEIGHT 8.7 cm Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks. Provenance: Belgian private collection. Depicting a Chinese literati with a Sennin-like appearance, his robe incised with a cloud design, comforting a frightened boy who clings Literature comparison: For a dark stained Sennin with karako by the to him. The appearance of the boy is very unusual, and he looks same artist, see the Sotheby’s Chicago catalogue of the Alan Liss almost like an oni – he has huge inlaid eyes of dark horn and pulls collection, lot 231. a peculiar face, firmly grabbing hold of his elder, whilst the latter reassuringly pats him on the head. Large himotoshi through the Estimate EUR 3.000,- back and signature YOSHINAGA к. Starting price EUR 1.500,- 136 137 162 | A RARE AND EARLY NETSUKE OF A CHINESE HIGH TABLE Unsigned Japan, late 17th to early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A beautifully functional ivory netsuke with a pleasing deep yellow and honey orange patina, depicting a high Chinese scholarly table, showing a splendid curvature at the feet, with a blossoming plum tree in the middle. Natural himotoshi. HEIGHT 8.7 cm Condition: Excellent condition with characteristic age cracks, wear and patina indicating a very early piece. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 160 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECLINING CHINESE WOMAN LENGTH 8.2 cm Unsigned Condition: Very good condition commensurate with age and Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) handling. Provenance: British collection. An ivory netsuke of a reclining Chinese woman, her head resting on Literature comparison: A similar netsuke of Sugawara no Michizane one elbow, one eye opened and the other closed. In one hand she is illustrated in the Baur collection, Marie-Therese Coullery and holds a blossoming plum flower, suggestive of the poet and god of Martin S. Newstead, Geneve, 1977, page 173, C 418. calligraphy Sugawara no Michizane. Beautiful yellow patina to the backside and honey spots throughout. Large and hollow himotoshi Estimate EUR 2.500,- on the underside. Starting price EUR 1.250,- 161 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A CHINESE BOY 163 | A RARE AND UNUSUAL WOOD MANJU NETSUKE OF GENTOKU Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Depicting a Chinese boy dressed in a buttoned robe, the buttons inlaid in black horn. The boy has a bewildered expression, his hand Depicted is a variation of the subject of the Chinese hero Gentoku placed on his head and his mouth and eyes opened, the pupils (Li Bai) during his grand escape from the castle Ryu-Ho. On the inlaid in black horn. His dress is decorated with designs of waves, front side of the manju, carved in relief, is an image of a pagoda, signifying his foreign heritage. A detailed carving with a fine patina, surely an allusion to the castle Ryu-Ho. Around the sides, partially especially to the backside, and large coherent himotoshi. carved in openwork all around, Gentoku is bursting forward, sword-first, through dense waves and sprays of water. Gentoku HEIGHT 6 cm has the appearance of Shoki the demon queller – the two are often confused. The underside shows a brocade pattern and central Condition: There is some himotoshi. old damage to the left side of the end of his robe and DIAMETER 4 cm, THICKNESS 2.2 cm the object formerly held in his hand is lost. Otherwise Condition: Minor nicks, surface wear, discoloration. Good, old and fine condition with a worn condition. stunning patina. Provenance: Austrian private collection. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 300,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 138 139 GODS & RELIGION 165 | TOMOKAZU: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF EGUCHI NO KIMI ON ELEPHANT By Tomokazu, signed Tomokazu Japan, Kyoto, mid to late 19th century According to legend, Kimi was a courtesan in the village of Eguchi and was so devoted to Buddhist scripture that she became the incarnation of Fugen Bosatsu (Boddhisattva Samantabhadra). In the present netsuke she is shown holding a long Buddhist sutra in both hands and is seated on top of an elephant, which is the mount of Fugen Bosatsu and here visibly delighted by Kimi’s presence, smiling benevolently. Her facial features are masterfully carved, with pronounced feminine features showing her beauty, while at the same time radiating tranquility and Buddhist compassion. 164 | A POWERFUL AND LARGE EBONY WOOD The netsuke is lightly stained and finished remarkably well with NETSUKE OF OGURI HANGAN AND ONIKAGE stunning details, such as finely engraved patterns or her long falling hair in the back. Himotoshi and signature TOMOKAZU ƤĂ on the Unsigned underside. Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) HEIGHT 4.3 cm Masterfully sculpted with strong Buddhistic features and depicting Condition: Very good condition. Oguri Hangan balancing his horse Onikage (devil’s shadow) on Provenance: Dutch private collection formerly acquired at a goban. Oguri is pulling on the horse’s reigns, forcing it to a Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 6 November 2014, London, lot 42. complete stop. The horse’s head is lowered obediently, and Oguri smiles confidently. The ebony wood is smoothly polished, and the Estimate EUR 2.000,- details are boldly carved. The manner of the carving is unusual as it Starting price EUR 1.000,- displays features one would normally expect from religious carvings – resonating with tranquility. The legends surrounding Oguri Hangan are prominently featured in Sekkyo (Buddhistic artistic sermons), which could explain why the artist has chosen to portray Oguri Hangan in this manner. The himotoshi are well-hidden, one going through the underside and the other next to Oguri’s sword. The Goban (go board, derived from the Chinese Weiqi board) stands on four feet. HEIGHT 7.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition. The himotoshi exhibit some wear 166 | A RARE DARK WOOD NETSUKE showing that this netsuke was probably worn. OF EGUCHI NO KIMI Provenance: German private collection, old collection no. 697. Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Oguri Hangan Daisukeshige (ca. 1398-1464), son of a provincial lord, was dispossessed of his estates by the Akishige clan. He led an adventurous life and was celebrated for his superior horsemanship, Carved from a dark reddish wood and depicting the courtesan Kimi so much that people claimed he could balance his legendary horse atop her elephant. The visible tusk of the elephant is inlaid in ivory. Onikage with all four feet on a goban. Large himotoshi through the under- and backside. Estimate EUR 3.000,- HEIGHT 4.7 cm Starting price EUR 1.500,- Condition: Good condition, some age cracks. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 140 141 167 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF KIKUJIDO Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved as the chrysanthemum boy seated on a dense bundle of kiku (chrysanthemum) blossoms, appearing like a cloud, on which he floats. Draped over his shoulder is a blossoming kiku branch, appearing like a Buddhist nyoi scepter. He is biting his teeth and his glaring eyes are inlaid with dark horn. A compact, functional netsuke with large, hollow himotoshi – the smaller one cleverly hidden behind one kiku flower. HEIGHT 5.5 cm Condition: Excellent worn condition, the himotoshi show wear 169 | KOJU: AN IVORY MANJU Carved in shishiabori with a portrait of Rakan (Sanskrit - Arhat, showing this netsuke was worn. NETSUKE WITH RAKAN Chinese - Luohan), wearing a half-shouldered robe with brocade Provenance: Formerly Helen and Jack Mang collection, then pattern and large earrings. His expression is grim, and he is Luxembourg private collection acquired at Quinn’s auction galleries, By Koju, signed Koju with kakihan surrounded by a partially worn halo. The reverse decorated with a 7 December 2012, lot 553. Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) design of waves and with the signature KOJU ʾ and kakihan. Kikujido remained youthful with the passing of 700 years after Published: F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part A, New York, 1986, page DIAMETER 4.7 cm writing the lines of Buddhist teachings, gifted to him by the 362. emperor, on the leaves of a chrysanthemum every day. The dew Henri L. Joly, ‘Catalogue of the H. Seymour Trower collection of Condition: The ivory slightly worn. Good condition. that washed the characters away became his elixir of life. The Japanese Art’, London, Glendining & Co. Ltd., March 1913-plate V. Provenance: Ex-Seymour Trower Collection, Ex-Somerwil Collection, Buddhist aspect of this depiction is visible in this netsuke. ill. 396. thence British collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- This design was frequented by Ikkosai Kojitsu and Suzuki Kosai, Starting price EUR 500,- contemporaries of Koju who signed with the same kakihan and important makers of manju netsuke. Auction comparison: For a manju with the same design by Suzuki Kosai, see Bonhams, Asian Decorative Arts, 24 June 2015, San Francisco, lot 8012. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 168 | A FINE SQUARE MANJU IVORY NETSUKE WITH KIKUJIDO 170 | A RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE Unsigned OF A FEMALE BODDHISATTVA -DSDQPLG WKbFHQWXU\(GRSHULRG Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) In the form of a two-part square manju and decorated with an image of Kikujido (the chrysanthemum boy) carved in high relief and set on a patterned ground resembling many mountain A very unusual stag antler netsuke showing a female Boddhisattva SHDNVb.LNXMLGRLVJOHHIXOO\VPLOLQJDQGKROGLQJDSDLQWEUXVKLQRQH (enlightened being) wearing a leaf cloak leaving her right side bare hand and a stalk of blooming kiku (chrysanthemum) blossoms in and revealing her breast, which she presents with her left hand. the other. Small himotoshi through the reverse. She has sharp Hinduistic facial features, curls like Buddha and a high ushnisha. Himotoshi through the back. SIZE 3.8 x 3.8 cm HEIGHT 7.9 cm Condition: The ivory very slightly worn and with few expected age cracks. Good condition. Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 600,- 142 143 173 | SHOUNSAI: AN EXCELLENT AND RARE WOOD AND IVORY NETSUKE OF DARUMA By Shounsai Joryu, signed Shounsai Japan, Edo, early 19th century, Edo period (1868-1912) Published: Illustrated in F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part A, New York, 1986, page 263. 171 | A RARE BIZEN POTTERY NETSUKE OF DARUMA APPLYING MOXA, EX BUSHELL Depicting the Zen patriarch Daruma with a pensive expression. Daruma is almost entirely covered in a priestly robe flowing in the Unsigned wind, carved from wood with a stunning patina and grain. His face Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) and bare torso are inlaid in ivory, with incised beard and chest hair, and his facial features are crafted very well. Daruma was of either Published: R. Bushell, Ceramic Netsuke in Arts of Asia, 2nd Special Persian, central Asian or south Indian descent, which is reflected Netsuke Issue, March-April 1976, p. 27, fig. 12. in this netsuke – making it a rare portrait of this important and A. Katchen, Netsuke 7, vol. 2, pp. 450-451, no. K935. historical Buddhist monk, who is often caricaturized in netsuke art. His sandaled feet and the thin reed which he floats on are also carved from a single piece of ivory. The backside with good A molded Bizen ceramic netsuke with finely carved details and himotoshi above the signature SHOUNSAI Ӹ. depicting the Zen-patriarch Daruma applying a moxa pellet to his right leg which is visibly causing him pain from the burning HEIGHT 6.3 cm sensation. Condition: Very good condition. HEIGHT 3.7 cm Provenance: Anonymous sale, Glendining, 31st May 1935, then Jay Hopkins and hence British collection. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Raymond Bushell, sold in his sale at Christie’s London, Estimate EUR 4.000,- 27.10.87, lot 260, bought by Eskenazi for Arlette Katchen collection, Starting price EUR 2.000,- Paris. Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy used to heat particular points of the body by using burning dried mugwort. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 172 | RYUKI: AN EBONY AND IVORY SQUARE MANJU NETSUKE OF DARUMA By Ryuki, signed Ryuki Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Set in an elegant ebony square wood bowl with a beautiful grain and depicting a stern-faced Daruma, with his eyes wide-opened. The reverse decorated with a nyoi scepter in sunken relief next to small himotoshi ringed in ivory. Signed in the front RYUKI Ӑ – a very rare artist. SIZE 3.3 x 3.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Ex Somerwil Collection, Amsterdam. Johan Somerwil was a publisher from Amsterdam who with great dedication and excellent eye for unusual representations, built up an extensive and varied collection of netsuke. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 144 145 175 | MUNEYUKI: AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF A PUMPKIN DARUMA By Muneyuki, signed Muneyuki Japan, second half of 19th century The Zen-patriarch Daruma has turned into a pumpkin after his nine-year meditation. He awakens, yawning and stretching, bursting the pumpkin. The torn-off base acts as the base for the netsuke and his stretched hands hold a pumpkin seed. Daruma’s expression is crafted amusingly. Himotoshi through the back and signature MUNEYUKI ඐƥ on the underside of the base. HEIGHT 6.9 cm Condition: Worn condition. Both legs are reattached, and a small section of the elbow is restored. Minor age cracks and general wear. Provenance: Parisian private collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 174 | MASAKAZU: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A YAWNING OKAME By Masakazu, signed Masakazu Japan, Gifu, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) 176 | HOGEN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE An amusing depiction of the Shinto goddess Okame, also known as OF A YAWNING OKAME Otafuku, known for performing the first nude dance in Japan. This work shows her half-nude, with large breasts, a large belly and a Signed Hogen cavernous yawn. Both arms are raised up, again in the manner of Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) the Zen patriarch Daruma, who is often depicted yawning during or after his nine-year meditation. Okame depicted in this way is also often called Onna Daruma (“Woman Daruma”). Large, generous Exquisitely carved as Okame, also known as Otafuku, kneeling himotoshi through the back and the left buttock. Signed MASAKAZU bare-chested with her supple, delicately carved breasts shown. ȢĂ on one foot. Beautiful dark patina. She is yawning and stretching her arms up high – in the manner of Daruma during his nine-year meditation – therefore this depiction HEIGHT 6.1 cm is also referred to as Onna Daruma (“Woman Daruma”), which is also slang for a courtesan. Her features are delicate and sensitive. Condition: Small, old chip to the edge of the right foot. A tiny Himotoshi through the back and signature HOGEN ʑᵄ, which is minuscule chip to the edge of the larger himotoshi. Otherwise, an honorary title. excellent condition. Provenance: Hans Spoerry collection, mentioned in the collector’s HEIGHT 4.6 cm personal inventory under the number 5032. Condition: Excellent patina. Minor surface wear, notably on the right Auction comparison: For a very similar netsuke see Bonhams, foot. Very good condition. Netsuke from a European Collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 130. Provenance: British private collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 500,- 146 147 177 | AN EXCELLENT TALL POLYCHROME CYPRESS WOOD NETSUKE OF OKAME Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The Shinto goddess Okame is standing tall with one leg lifted in a dancing posture. The facial features are crafted powerfully, and the movement of her body is sensual. She is bare-chested with supple breasts and is holding her slipping loincloth, colored in red lacquer, evoking a feeling of lust as she barely covers her crotch and reveals her left buttock on the reverse. Her finely carved hair is colored in black lacquer and her skin is cream-colored. An incredibly powerful and sensual netsuke in Shuzan-style with strong shunga tones. Himotoshi in the back. The cypress wood is characteristically light. HEIGHT 9.4 cm Condition: Good, complete and characteristically worn condition – the applied color is worn in some areas. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 148 149 180 | GYOKKOSAI: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF JUROJIN By Gyokkosai, signed Gyokkosai Japan, Edo, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: A. Katchen, Netsuke 7, volume 1, page 293, K758. 178 | TOMOCHIKA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEI WITH KARAKO A fine, beautifully stained and intricately worked study of the lucky By Chikuyosai Tomochika, signed Tomochika god Jurojin standing and holding a scroll in both hands. He is Japan, Edo/Tokyo, mid to late 19th century wearing a hood and his robe, adorned with scattered karakusa, is elegantly flowing. Small himotoshi through the reverse above the finely engraved signature GYOKKOSAI ʾ. The lucky god carrying his sack on a pole across his shoulder, the karako sitting in a cloth suspended from it and acting as a HEIGHT 3.6 cm counterweight. Fine staining and well-carved expressions. Good, angular himotoshi in the reverse and signature in a classic wavy Condition: Excellent condition. reserve TOMOCHIKA Ƥʡ. Provenance: Katchen Collection sold at Sotheby’s, The Katchen Collection of Netsuke, 8 November 2005, London, lot 76. HEIGHT 3.8 cm Gyokkosai was an accomplished student of Ikkosai Saito Itaro, for Condition: Very good condition. a discussion of his work see International Netsuke Society Journal, Provenance: Belgian Private collection. volume 39, number 2, pages 18-20. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 179 | DOSHO: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEI By Kagei Dosho (1828-1884), signed Dosho 181 | A RARE NARWHAL TUSK SLAB Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) NETSUKE WITH DAIKOKU AND BOY Unsigned An ivory netsuke depicting the pot-bellied lucky deity Hotei with Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) a large shiny head and thick earlobes, gleefully laughing. Fine staining and excellent details, such as the finely engraved robe. Good, asymmetrical himotoshi through the under- and backside. Carved from a cross-section of a narwhal tusk and decorated in low Signature DOSHO ƅȟ underneath the left foot. relief with an image of a laughing Daikoku with a large bag, next to a jolly karako holding a fan. The reverse decorated with Buddhist HEIGHT 3.1 cm, LENGTH 3.9 cm scrolls. The grain of this rare material is very attractive, and the characteristic ridges are recognizable on the rim. Central himotoshi. Condition: Very good condition, with expected thin age cracks. Provenance: Hungarian collection. HEIGHT 5.6 cm Kagei Dosho (1828-1884) is regarded as one of the finest carvers of Condition: Excellent condition. the Osaka school. He was a student of Doraku and pupil to Sansho. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 500,- 150 151 184 | MASASADA: A POWERFUL AND RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN WITH DRUM By Masasada (Masakazu), signed Masakazu Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerful wood netsuke of the thunder god Raijin squatting, wearing a large drum strapped to his back and holding a geta in one hand. The oni is portrayed with a boldly carved muscular body and well-defined anatomy. In contrast, his facial features are 182 | KAGETOSHI: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE humoristic, animated and imbued with originality and character – OF BENTEN AND DRAGONS very typical for this rare artist. Raijin has inlaid eyes and horns, and the studs on the drum are inlaid as well. Good himotoshi through By Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi the deity’s back and the signature on the underside, slightly faded, Japan, Kyoto, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) in a rectangular reserve MASAKAZU ຩᑰ, however the artist is Auction comparison: For a model of a tengu by this rare artist see known as Masasada. Lempertz, Asiatische Kunst, 5 December 2015, Cologne, lot 761. Literature comparison: For a similar model of a Raijin see MCI page Carved in sukashi-bori (openwork), a technique pioneered by HEIGHT 3.8 cm 430. For a discussion on the artist see International Netsuke Society Kagetoshi, and depicting two dragons, their flaming bodies Journal volume 30, no. 1, pages 22-26, where Jay Hopkins suggests intertwining and merging together in a densely carved bundle. Condition: Possibly a section of the left arm is lost, however it that the artist is probably of Tanba origin. The center, almost completely surrounded by the dragons, is appears that he is putting his arm behind his back, beneath the carved with an image of the lucky goddess Benten playing a Koto. drum. One inlaid horn is replaced. Beautiful patina. Estimate EUR 2.000,- One dragon is roaring and holding a tama, while the other has its Provenance: British collection. Starting price EUR 1.000,- mouth closed – both their eyes are inlaid. Himotoshi through the underside and signature in a rectangular reserve KAGETOSHI բϙ. HEIGHT 3.1 cm Condition: Good, undamaged condition. Provenance: European collection. The lucky goddess Benten, is relatively rare in netsuke art compared to the other lucky gods. She is the goddess of music, love and poetry and often depicted riding a dragon. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 183 | SEIKA: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A BOY RIDING FUKUROKUJU AS A TURTLE By Seika, signed Seika Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Carved as a karako (Chinese boy) holding a fishing rod and basket and seated atop the lucky god Fukurokuju who has taken the form of a turtle. The lucky deity is shown underneath with his typically large, smooth forehead, thick earlobes, and a long flowing beard. The depiction is surely an allusion to the story of Urashima Taro (see catalog nos. 34, 149, 317). Also, Fuku-roku-ju stands for luck – wealth – long life, and the turtle is a symbol for longevity, therefore Fukurokuju is often depicted transformed into a turtle. Signature SEIKA ੯Ļ in red color to the side and small himotoshi through the underside. LENGTH 4.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 152 153 FOLKLORE & SCENES FROM DAILY LIFE 185 | AN AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF AN ONI IN SHOKI’S BAG Unsigned 187 | A RARE AND UNUSUAL IVORY Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) MITATE NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONI Unsigned An amusing ivory netsuke of an oni, half of his body uncovered in Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) the tattered bag of the demon queller Shoki. The oni is content with his escape, smiling, his visible eye is inlaid in dark horn. One of the horns is protruding through the bag – a charming detail! The An amusing parody of the classic sleeping sarumawashi model (see underside with a pleasing yellowish patina and large asymmetrical the next no. 188), though this time it is an oni stealing food from himotoshi. the sleeping demon queller. Shoki is shown fast asleep, though still as grim as ever, leaning on one hand and holding his sword in the LENGTH 4.2 cm other. The mischievous oni is stealing from a basket of food behind him. Good and large himotoshi on the underside. Condition: Good condition with minor expected age cracks, especially to the underside. The horns may have been replaced or LENGTH 5.3 cm are simply inlaid. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Condition: Good, complete condition with expected wear and age cracks. Very good patina. Estimate EUR 800,- Provenance: Dr Jay Hopkins, then Jacques Carré, then European Starting price EUR 400,- private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 186 | SHUSHO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF ONI NEMBUTSU 188 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING Signed Shusho (Funemasu) SARUMAWASHI AND MONKEY Japan, mid to late 19th century Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved as a repentant oni wearing a parasol attached to his back and carrying a notebook, inscribed Hogacho – a Buddhist subscription list. The netsuke is finely carved, the wood is The Sarumawashi (monkey trainer) was a street artist who accentuated and the oni has an amusing expression with minutely performed tricks with his monkey. In this netsuke the monkey inlaid eyes – one can see how desperately he is trying to hide trainer is depicted sleeping, his head resting on his elbow, with a his true nature. Small himotoshi through the back, between the serene facial expression, while the normally obedient monkey is parasol. Signature SHUSHO ༔ (Funemasu) on the underside of grabbing the basket of the food from behind his back. The ivory the robe. bearing a good patina and large himotoshi on the underside. HEIGHT 6.2 cm LENGTH 4.7 cm Condition: The mallet which the oni held in his right hand is lost. Condition: Fine condition with expected age cracks and a good The parasol handle is chipped. Otherwise good condition. patina. Provenance: British private collection. Provenance: Ex Herbert Mew Collection, Dorset UK (1881-1946). Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 400,- 154 155 191 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A PERSIMMON MERCHANT 189 | A GOOD TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A Unsigned STANDING SARUMAWASHI WITH MONKEY Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A quirky netsuke, carved from a triangular section of ivory, depicting a merchant holding a bag draped over his shoulder and a branch Published: Barry Davies Oriental Art, Netsuke and Inro from of persimmons in front of his body in one hand, the other being European Collections (London, 2002), no. 100 hidden in his elaborately flowing robe. The composition is full of Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji Art (Munich, 2004), no. 199 movement, one foot is raised, the body is slightly twisted, and the man has an amusingly delighted expression. Good patina and himotoshi, one hidden inside a raised fold of the robe. An ivory netsuke of a sarumawashi (monkey trainer) standing and laughing with large glaring eyes inlaid in black lustrous horn. He is HEIGHT 5.7 cm wearing a cap with an incised peach branch, has a food basket tied to his obi in front of him and is holding a taming stick in one hand Condition: Good condition with expected age cracks and fine and the monkey’s paw in the other. The monkey is seated on his patina. shoulder, mischievously holding his mouth as if he was about to Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. laugh. The backside with a very good patina and angular himotoshi. Literature comparison: Compare to no. 245 in Karl M. Schwarz, HEIGHT 8.8 cm Netsuke Subjects, which is described as a physician. Condition: Good, worn condition with expected age cracks and Estimate EUR 1.000,- good patina. A section of the taming stick with an old and worn- Starting price EUR 500,- down loss. Provenance: Barry Davies, then Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji art, then Luxembourg private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 190 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A TEMPLE SERVANT (EJI) Unsigned 192 | RYOSAI: AN IVORY NETSUKE Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) OF A BLIND MONK By Ryosai, signed Ryosai The temple servant is shown fondling a large umbrella with an Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) amusing expression, almost like that of Usofuki. He is wearing a large flowing robe and an eboshi. Excellent honey patina throughout and himotoshi in the reverse. An ivory netsuke of a standing blind man, wearing a pair of geta and a monk’s robe, and leaning on a large cane. His blind eye is HEIGHT 7.4 cm visible and the other one is closed, and he has a large lump on his forehead. Sensitively crafted facial features. Good himotoshi Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, excellent patina through the back and signature RYOSAI ݘ (the first character in and expected age cracks. sosho) in an opening of the robe by the side. Provenance: Formerly Helen and Jack Mang collection, then Luxembourg private collection acquired at Quinn’s auction galleries, HEIGHT 6.8 cm 7 December 2012, lot 553. Condition: Good worn condition. Expected age cracks and minor Auction comparison: Compare to a similar wood netsuke sold at imperfections such as plugged nerve channels. Appealing patina. Lempertz, Asiatische Kunst, 07 June 2019, Cologne, lot 421. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 500,- Starting price EUR 600,- 156 157 193 | MASAYOSHI: A WOOD OKIMONO NETSUKE 195 | A LARGE AND POWERFUL OF A FRUSTRATED RAT CATCHER WOOD NETSUKE OF TADAMORI WITH THE OIL THIEF By Masayoshi, signed Masayoshi (Seikei) Japan, Nagoya, late 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The rat catcher, equipped with a long club, is holding down a box with one hand in an effort to catch the rat, which has escaped – the Dynamically and powerfully crafted, showing Taira no Tadamori usual fate of this poor character. The rat catcher has a powerful grabbing the oil thief Abura Bozu from behind. Tadamori’s expression, his facial features are distorted as he screams in expression is fierce, expecting an evil demon, while he grabs the oil agony, almost appearing like a demon, as he turns his head to view thief by the arm, who is holding an ewer. Abura Bozo’s expression is the nimble rat, which is innocently perched atop his shoulder. All surprised, one foot lifted – he is caught red-handed. Unbeknownst eyes are inlaid in dark horn. A detailed and bold carving – note to Tadamori the man is nothing but a poor old soul, stealing a tiny the emaciated body, bony limbs and smooth polish of the wood. bit of oil from the many lamps in the forest near the Yasaka no .Seikei) on the underside of the Yashior temple. This mishap is masterfully depicted in this netsuke) Signature MASAYOSHI Ȣ٤ loincloth. Large asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. Beautiful patina and accentuated garment folds. HEIGHT 4.4 cm HEIGHT 6.8 cm, LENGTH 5 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: British collection. Condition: Excellent condition; fine patina. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection, formerly sold at Zacke, The rat (nezumi) is a symbol of wealth and the companion of the Kunst der Netsuke und Inro Japans – Austellung 1991, Vienna, lucky god Daikoku. That may explain why rat catchers had such a no.27. bad reputation, since he is usually depicted emaciated, ugly and demonic, as in the present carving. Masayoshi (alternatively read Estimate EUR 2.000,- Seikei), was a pupil of Masakazu and Masasada, and was best Starting price EUR 1.000,- known for his fine netsuke of rat catchers. Auction comparison: For the same model in ivory see Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, Vienna, lot 149. Literature comparison: Compare to another netsuke by Seikei of a rat catcher in wood illustrated in the Baur collection, Marie-Therese Coullery and Martin S. Newstead, Geneve, 1977, page 221, C 590. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 194 | CHIKUSAI: A WOOD AND IVORY 196 | A LARGE WOOD NETSUKE OF NETSUKE OF A RAT CATCHER THE OIL THIEF ABURA BOZU By Chikusai, signed Chikusai Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, late 19th to early 20th century A wood netsuke of a frustrated rat catcher holding down an ivory In the legend of the oil thief, one night during a severe storm the box with which he tries to catch a rather large rat, which has emperor Shirakawa sees a demon in the forest with a spiked head escaped over his back. He is wearing a long flowing garment and and sends Taira no Tadamori to confront this mysterious creature. has his hair bound up into a knot. Contrary to no. 193, he is not In fact, it was simply a temple servant who had gotten into the habit facing backwards towards the rat – probably he has not noticed of stealing from oil lamps. In this netsuke, Abura Bozu is shown yet his failed attempt to catch the rat, though he certainly suspects standing on one geta, wearing a tattered umbrella on his head the futility of his action. Very good himotoshi through the side and and repairing his broken geta, screaming in agony. A little oil pot is underside and signature CHIKUSAI ໜ on the underside of the tied to his obi. When viewing this netsuke one can understand why box. the emperor mistook the oil thief for a demon. Himotoshi in the reverse. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cm HEIGHT 7.9 cm Condition: One hand and foot reattached – otherwise good condition. Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: British collection. Provenance: European private collection acquired at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 14 May 2015, London, lot 26. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 158 159 198 | KYOKUSEI: A FINE INLAID IVORY TOKYO SCHOOL NETSUKE OF ONO NO TOFU By Kyokusei, signed Kyokusei Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) Depicting the legendary calligraphist Ono no Tofu seated and holding a brush and paper, with a deeply focused expression, and one elbow leaning on a scholarly table. The details lacquered in red and black. The underside shows the himotoshi, the larger ringed in mother of pearl, and the signature in a red lacquer tablet KYOKUSEI ŀ, underneath the table. HEIGHT 3.9 cm Condition: Minor imperfections, age cracks. Very good condition. Provenance: French private collection. Kyokusei was a pupil of Kyokusai of the Tokyo school. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 197 | YASUAKI: A SUPERB INLAID IVORY TOKYO SCHOOL NETSUKE OF NASAKEJI OPENING THE TREASURE BOX By Kodama Yasuaki, signed Yasuaki (Homei) Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) 199 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A MAN WITH DARUMA TOY DOLL An incredibly fine and detailed study of Nasakeji opening a treasure Unsigned box, the inside showing coins, scrolls and jewelry inlaid in stained Japan, probably Tokyo, late 19th century to early 20th century horn, ivory, mother of pearl, tortoise shell and coral. This depiction relates to the story of the tongue cut sparrow. Nasakeji, here shown as a bucktoothed old and simple man, is visibly surprised from the Finely carved from pale wood, suggestive of the So-school, and contents of the box – the facial features are sensitively crafted with depicting a seated man presenting a daruma toy doll. The man is a a superior sense of detail. The backside shows a tabako-ire set toy vendor and has an amusingly grim and characterful expression. tied to his obi, with a coral netsuke, mother of pearl ojime, green- One larger himotoshi through the underside and the smaller one stained ivory cord and a lacquered wood tonkotsu. The underside hidden between the legs. shows the himotoshi and signature YASUAKI ̝dž (Homei) with red lacquer seal Kodama ȑ. HEIGHT 4 cm HEIGHT 3.9 cm Condition: Very good condition, one of the inlaid eyes of the daruma doll is replaced. Condition: Perfect condition. Provenance: British private collection. Faded collection number Provenance: British collection. written in white. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 400,- 160 161 201 | YOSHI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A KARAKO WITH HORSE PUPPET Signed Yoshi Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The Chinese boy (karako) is shown with characteristic large tufts of hair, wearing a Chinese coat and with a joyous facial expression, as he is holding a large hand puppet of a horse enveloping both of his hands. The folds of his garment are carved with excellent detail, darkened for accentuation. A fine netsuke beaming with character and full of movement. The horse’s eyes are double inlaid with bone and black horn. Very good and large himotoshi through the back, above the signature YOSHI in a rounded reserve. HEIGHT 5.5 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: European private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 200 | A RARE TALL WOOD NETSUKE OF A CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINER WITH HORSE PUPPET Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A rare wood netsuke of a children’s entertainer wearing a hand puppet of a horse over one hand and scratching his head with the other. He has a round face with sensitively crafted, slightly feminine facial features - his expression is an enigmatic mixture of bewilderment and excitement. He is wearing a headcloth tied below his chin and his flowing robes are carved beautifully. Excellent himotoshi in the back, one of them formed naturally by the sleeve of the hand puppet. HEIGHT 8.3 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: German private collection, old collection no. 410 inside the himotoshi. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 162 163 202 | MUNENARI: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A NETSUKE CARVER By Munenari, signed Munenari Japan, second half of 19th century Dynamically crafted as a sculptor of a Bijin (beautiful lady), hammer and chisel in front of him. The sculptor has an amusing expression suggesting his astonishment, as the Bijin has come alive, suggestively holding the hem of her robe in front of her. The juxtaposition of their expressions is executed very well. The underside shows the tabako-ire of the sculptor and signature MUNENARI ඐŪ in a rectangular reserve. The placement of the himotoshi in the back of the Bijin between her obi, suggest that this is a netsuke of a netsuke, and the man is in fact a netsuke carver. HEIGHT 6.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor age-related wear. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 204 | MASATSUGU: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF SATO TADANOBU DEFINDING HIMSELF WITH A GOBAN By Masatsugu, signed Masatsugu Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A fine ivory netsuke, full of movement and the ivory bearing a very appealing color, depicting 203 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF SAIGYO HOSHI the samurai warrior Sato Tadanobu, who lived AND MOUNT FUJI during the late Heian period. According to legend he saved the life of Minamoto no Yoshitsune Unsigned and was attacked while playing a game of go Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) (adapted from the Chinese game Weiqi) and the only weapon he had to defend himself was the go board. He fought off numerous attackers and An early and compact ivory netsuke showing Saigyo Hoshi, a famous ultimately committed seppuku, a form of ritual poet and monk of the late Heian period, with his characteristic hat to his suicide, before his attackers could reach him. In side and admiring the towering mount Fuji beside him. Beautiful honey the present netsuke he is depicted holding the patina on the back- and underside, where also the coherent himotoshi go board over his shoulder and clenching his free are located. hand into a fist. His flowing robes are ornately decorated with various decorative patterns and HEIGHT 3 cm quite unusually he has the three-clawed feet of an oni. Large and irregular himotoshi through the Condition: Very good condition with expected back and the signature hidden between his legs and age-related age cracks. and robes MASATSUGU Ȣơ. Provenance: Parisian private collection, faint collection number in red. HEIGHT 5 cm Estimate EUR 800,- Condition: The edge of one foot has been Starting price EUR 400,- reattached, otherwise very good condition. Provenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 164 165 206 | A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF THE FISHER GIRL’S DREAM Unsigned Japan, second half of 19th century Published and Exhibited: Rutherston & Bandini Ltd., Netsuke, May 2013, no. 58, illustrated in the catalogue. An ivory netsuke in the shape of an unopened clam and carved in high relief with a serenely dreaming ama (fisher girl), her head rested in one hand and leaning on a half-opened basket revealing fish and an octopus (shunga!). Next to her is her trusty knife and an abalone shell. The details are incredibly refined, the image seems to come to life, gently protruding from the surface of the smoothly shimmering clam. Her robe is elegantly flowing, subtly revealing her low neckline. A stippled and stained line leads to the reverse where Ryujin’s underwater palace is suggested by a wall and gate tower. Fine yellowish patina and deep, large himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 4.4 cm, LENGTH 5.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Ex collection Nino Marakovic, Vienna, thence British collection. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 205 | IKKAN: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING SHOJO By Ikkan, signed Ikkan with kao Japan, Owari province, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A fine wood netsuke depicting a Shojo in a deep slumber after drinking a hefty amount of sake. Her head is resting on her upturned hand and her knees are curling towards her body. One of her distinctive attributes is her full long hair, which was crimson and said to contain a much sought-after dye. Her long hair is delicately carved in the present netsuke, as is her cloud-patterned brocade dress. Her facial features are finely carved and serene. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside and signature IKKAN Ăᆇ with kao, inside a reserve. LENGTH 4.4 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman. This is probably the artist’s most treated and famous subject and it should be noted that the present netsuke belongs to the upper percentile, quality-wise. Furthermore pieces with a kao added to the signatue are rare, see page 214 of MCI for another example. Auction comparison: For a comparable Shojo by Ikkan see Lempertz, Asiatische Kunst, 5 December 2015, Cologne, lot 683. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 166 167 208 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A FISHER GIRL AND OCTOPUS ON A GIANT AWABI Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) This netsuke depicts an ama, a diving and fisher girl, lying over a giant awabi, or ear shell. She is wearing only a loincloth; her pulsating body is finely carved, with lively yet subtle facial features. The tentacle of a tako, trapped in the shell, are wriggling around one of her ankles and one of her feet. When following the tentacle to the other side, one can see the large octopus which holds one tentacle, which forms the himotoshi, to its head with a somewhat shameful expression. The word “Tako” sounds like “Great Fortune”, which is apparently on the ama’s side. WIDTH 5.5 cm Condition: Very good condition; perhaps one little nick or imperfection to the right index finger of the ama. Very appealing honey patina on the underside. Provenance: French private collection. Literature comparison: For a very similar netsuke by Nobusada and likely by the same circle of hands see `Japanische Meisterwerke der Netsuke Kunst, Wolfmar Zacken’, 1993, Vienna, no. 28. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 207 | A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A STANDING AMA WITH AWABI Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Powerfully sculpted as an ama (diving girl) holding a large awabi in one hand and a strand of her finely engraved, inked skirt in the other. The skirt very much resembles her hair, which is parted and falls gently down her back; covering her breasts in the front. Her head is turned to the left and she has a powerful expression, as if she was surprised. Very good and generous himotoshi through the back. HEIGHT 8 cm Condition: Very good condition, fine yellow patina to the back and expected minor age cracks. Provenance: European collection, previously offered at Van Ham, 8 December 2016, lot 2380 (Estimate 7.500-8.000 EUR). Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 168 169 ANIMALS OTHER THAN THE ZODIAC 209 | A VERY LARGE IVORY MANJU NETSUKE WITH ISLANDERS Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The huge and thick ivory manju netsuke is carved in shishiabori (sunken relief) with an image of two south sea islanders facing each other amidst a sea of waves, probably fishing for coral. The waves are finely carved, and the bodies of the islanders are stippled, creating a three-dimensional effect. The reverse with further waves. Cord attachment through the peg in the middle of the manju netsuke. DIAMETER 6 cm, THICKNESS 2.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and age cracks. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 210 | KOJU: IVORY MANJU NETSUKE WITH FISHING KARAKO By Koju, signed Koju with kakihan Japan, Edo/Tokyo, mid-19th century An ivory two-part manju carved in shishiabori (sunken relief) depicting two karako fishing in a basin. One has his hands entirely submerged inside the basin while the other, visibly delighted, is pulling out a small fish. One of the boys is wearing a peculiar cape with engraved turtle shell patterns. The reverse finely incised with a scarecrow, votive tablet (ema) and crane inside a bonseki (miniature landscape). Central hole for himotoshi and signed KOJU ʾ with 211 | A FINE IVORY SASHI NETSUKE characteristic red kao. OF A DRIED SALMON DIAMETER 4.7 cm Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Condition: Very good condition, minor discoloration around the himotoshi. Provenance: Ex Herbert Mew Collection, An elongated ivory sashi netsuke depicting a dried salmon with Dorset UK (1881-1946). sharp rows of teeth. The surface is stippled for effect, stained attractively and has developed a pleasing patina over time. A fish Estimate EUR 1.200,- market scene executed with a fine sense of realism. Starting price EUR 600,- LENGTH 13.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition with a beautiful patina. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 170 171 213 | A LARGE WOOD NETSUKE OF A TOAD Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A large wood netsuke of a smiling toad (gama) with large inlaid pupils and its body posture alert as it is about to pounce. The warty skin of the amphibian is achieved very well. The underside shows the webbed feet and very large himotoshi. HEIGHT 3.2 cm, LENGTH 7 cm Condition: Minor imperfections to the wood such as smaller nicks and scratches. Otherwise good condition with an appealing patina. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 214 | A VERY RARE DARK WOOD NETSUKE OF A SEA HORSE Unsigned 212 | MASANAO: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A TOAD Japan, second half 19th century Signed Masanao Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from grainy dark wood with reddish hues, probably kurogaki wood (black persimmon), depicting a sea horse of elegant shape. The sea horse has large double inlaid eyes of shimmering mother A compact and expressive netsuke of a warty toad, the surface of pearl with horn pupils, giving it a comical expression. The details treatment is masterfully executed, emulating the skin of its real-life are well-carved and minimalistic. Good and large himotoshi through counterpart. The toad has large bulging eyes, double inlaid in two the backside. types of horn, and a wide mouth, giving it an enigmatic smile. The belly and underside are smooth and show the four webbed feet, HEIGHT 7.7 cm as well as the signature MASANAO Ȣˢ in an oval reserve and the himotoshi, one central and another tucked away between the legs. Condition: Excellent condition. HEGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 5 cm Provenance: European collection. Condition: Very good condition with minor, age-related surface wear. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Provenance: French private collection. Starting price EUR 750,- A toad signed Masanao would usually be attributed to Masanao of Ise-Yamada, though the manner of the signature is more like that of Masanao of Kyoto. In any case, ivory netsuke of toads of this size and quality are exceptionally rare. Auction comparison: Compare to an ivory netsuke of a toad by Masakatsu sold by Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Private collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 71. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 172 173 216 | SHOKO: A MAGNIFICENT WOOD NETSUKE OF A TORTOISE By Suganayo Shoko, signed Shichiju ni o suga (no) ya Shoko Japan, Hida, ca. 1870 (carved at the age of 72) Published: F. Meinertzhagen, MCI, Part B, New York, 1986, p. 746. Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, Honolulu 1982, p. 967. Carved with magnificent detail, the underside crafted from ebony wood and the upper carapace in reddish-brown wood, probably Hida chestnut wood. The carapace is rendered with intricate detail, the natural grain is achieved exactly. The underside shows the tortoise almost completely retracted, its scaly limbs and tail hidden within, and its head ever so slightly peeking out with a naturalistic expression enhanced by beautifully double-inlaid eyes of pale and dark horn. Central himotoshi through the underside and one parcel on the top of the carapace is removable and provides the cord attachment. Signed Shichiju ni o suga (no) ya SHOKO ֿ֟ (made by Suganoya Shoko at the age of 72). LENGTH 4.9 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Belgian private collection. Meinertzhagen notes of this piece in his card index: “Extremely fine work, every detail faultless”. He also records that the artist was one of the finest of his school and lists him as a pupil of Sukenaga. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 215 | SHIGEYOSHI: A FINE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A TORTOISE By Shigeyoshi, signed Shigeyoshi Japan, Iwami province, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Earle, Huthart, p.362, no.339. Finely carved as a tortoise almost completely retracted within its carapace, creating a perfectly rounded and ideal netsuke shape. The individual sections of the shell are carved in a very accomplished manner, with the underside showing the beautifully wrinkled and scaly skin of its clawed limbs, neck and tail. The himotoshi is formed by a section of the shell removable on the top and a central himotoshi on the underside, where also the signature SHIGEYOSHI ȶ is shown. LENGTH 4.2 cm Condition: Superb condition. Provenance: The Robert S. Huthart Collection. Literature comparison: For a similar example see F. Meinertzhagen, MCI, Part B, page 734. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 174 175 217 | SHOKIN: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A CAT AND TORTOISE 219 | A GOOD IVORY NETSUKE By Shokin, signed Shokin OF A WOLF WITH SKULL Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A good and unusual stained wood netsuke of a cat wearing a decorative collar around its neck and sitting on a kame (tortoise), which seems not to be particularly disturbed by this. Its head and An early ivory netsuke of a wolf (okami) voraciously biting into a legs are slightly retracted. The cat has a silly, pleased expression on skull. The wolf is emaciated and has glaring hungry eyes double- its face whilst it lifts one paw up to prod the shell of the turtle. Both inlaid in pale and dark horn. The entire piece is covered in a very animals have black inlaid eyes. The patterns on the turtle shell are attractive old honey patina. Natural himotoshi. ඁ in a reserve؟ precisely carved. Himotoshi and signature SHOKIN on the underside. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 4.7 cm HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cm Condition: Good age-related condition with expected age cracks, wear and beautiful patina. One tiny, old and smoothed out chip to Condition: Excellent condition. the edge of the right front paw. Provenance: German private collection. Provenance: Czech private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 750,- 220 | A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF A WOLF WITH A SKULL 218 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SLEEPING Unsigned PIEBALD CAT ON A FAN Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The wolf (okami) with a skull is a common motif in netsuke art, found in the works of Tomotada and Yoshinaga among others. The skull originates either from the battlefield of Musashi or it is the When picking this netsuke up, one is immediately overwhelmed wolf of Kozukahara, the execution grounds near Edo, both places with a feeling of peace and tranquility. The well-fed piebald cat being near Tokyo. The wolf is large as well as finely and expressively (neko) is lying curled up on a large fan with its head resting on the carved, the reddish wood polished to a shine and with black crossed paws in front of it. The eyes are closed, and its expression staining for contrast. “Okami” for wolf is homophonous to Okami, is the epitome of calmness with a hint of fatigue. The underside meaning “great god”, as the wolf used to be called out of respect with the finely carved ribbed surface of the fan and perfectly for the animal. Natural himotoshi between the legs and through the crafted, asymmetrical himotoshi. skull. A powerful and early netsuke. HEIGHT 2.2 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cm HEIGHT 3.6 cm, LENGTH 5.5 cm Condition: Very good condition. Miniscule age-related nicks and Condition: One of the lower incisors is chipped otherwise good wear. condition with minor wear and a good patina. Provenance: British private collection with two valuations from Provenance: British private collection with two valuations from Sotheby’s, by Neil K. Davey, dated 1974 & 1984, inventory no. 133. Sotheby’s, by Neil K. Davey, dated 1974 & 1984, inventory no. 105. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 176 177 221 | AN EXCELLENT AND RARE BONE NETSUKE OF A WOLF WITH CRAB Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Barry Davies Oriental Art, Netsuke Through Three Centuries (London, 1996), no. 53. Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji Art (Munich, 2004), no. 79. Carved from an unusually pure section of bone, depicting a wolf or yama-inu (lit. wild dog), with its left front paw placed on a crab. The carving is strong with pronounced ribs and powerfully carved muscular limbs. The wolf has a long face with long laid-back ears, large inlaid eyes and an intense, voracious expression. The fangs of the hungry wolf are shown, unfortunately for the poor creature the crab is certainly no feast. The unique structure of the bone coupled with a strong patina give this netsuke a unique appeal. Natural himotoshi between the wolf’s two right paws and its tail which curls underneath its body to the side. HEIGHT 3.8 cm, LENGTH 5.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition with expected wear and natural miniscule crackling. Provenance: Barry Davies, then Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji art, then Luxembourg private collection. In both publications this netsuke was erroneously described as ivory, which is testament to the unique purity of the bone, which is probably maritime. Literature comparison: Compare the expression of the wolf to a netsuke by Rantei in The Baur Collection, Marie-Therese Coullery and Martin S. Newstead, Geneve, 1977, page 339, C1057. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 178 179 224 | MITSUSADA: A VERY FINE ANR RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A QUAIL WITH MILLET By Ohara Mitsusada, signed Mitsusada Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A beautifully stained and perfectly rounded ivory netsuke of a plump quail with a leafy stalk of millet in its beak. The stem bends from the weight of the naturalistically carved, thick bundle of grains which drape downwards on the right side of its beak. Two elegantly carved leaves extend from the stem over its back, and another one is carved underneath the body. Particular attention to detail has been given to the plumage of the feathery bird. Small inlaid eyes of lustrous black horn give it a very bird-like expression. Small Ohara Mitsusada was one of the most accomplished students of himotoshi on the underside and slightly worn signature MITSUSADA Ohara Mitsuhiro (1810-1875). He used a similar stain and his works ʾǭ in a rounded reserve. are of comparative quality, however much rarer than those of the master. 222 | A FINE OSAKA SCHOOL IVORY HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 3.1 cm NETSUKE OF A HATCHING CHICK Auction comparison: For another work of this rare artist see Condition: Two larger age cracks through the body. Possible Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 6 November 2016, London, lot 11. Unsigned, attributed to Kaigyokusai Masatsugu school restoration to the end of the tail feathers. Generally, in good Japan, Osaka, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) condition with a beautifully worn patina. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Provenance: British collection. Starting price EUR 2.000,- Published: Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji Art (Munich, 2004), no. 101. A lightly stained ivory netsuke of a hatching chick shown emerging from a half eggshell. One leg is inside the shell and the other on the edge as the fledgling lifts itself outside with a raised head and a curious expression, with minutely inlaid eyes of lustrous black horn. A fine and charming carving from the Osaka school, most likely school of Kaigyokusai Masatsugu. Himotoshi through the eggshell. HEIGHT 3.6 cm Condition: Good condition with age cracks. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Literature comparison: Compare to a very similar netsuke signed Masatsugu in The Baur Collection, Marie-Therese Coullery and Martin S. Newstead, Geneve, 1977, page 325, C996. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke signed Doraku(Sai) sold at Quinn’s Auction Galleries, Japanese Works of Art Part I, 4 May 2019, Falls Church, lot 218. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 223 | TADAYOSHI: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MANDARIN DUCK By Tadayoshi, signed Tadayoshi Japan, late 19th century A compact and ideally shaped netsuke of a mandarin duck. Finely stained and with inlaid eyes of black horn. Himotoshi and signature .on the underside in a rectangular reserve ץTADAYOSHI ฑ LENGTH 3.9 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Parisian private collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 180 181 227 | A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL 225 | IKKO: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE Unsigned OF TWO QUAILS ON MILLET Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) By Ikko, signed Ikko Japan, mid to late 19th century Beautifully and naturalistically carved as a snail (katatsumuri) shown emerging from its shell with its feelers and labial tentacles folded back and resting on the shell for compactness. The spiraling shell Finely carved and stained depicting two quails perched on a dense is carved with incredible detail and the rough texture of the snail’s spray of millet. The two birds are facing in opposite directions, naked body is achieved very well, contrasting to the underside of one pecking at the millet and the other upright, their expressions the body which is smooth and succulent. The foot is visible on the powerfully crafted with minutely inlaid eyes. The dense plumage is underside and forms a curling lump with natural himotoshi going accentuated and finely engraved. The underside shows the millet through under it. This snail though unsigned, is in the range of leaves elegantly flowing around, one showing the signature IKKO Ă great examples by Nagoya and Tanba masters. ʾ and cleverly forming the himotoshi. HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 4.2 cm HEIGHT 3.5 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cm Condition: Good condition, one of the feelers with a small, very Condition: A tiny section of the tail feathers of the upright quail well-done repair. with a minor restoration. Otherwise very good condition with few Provenance: British private collection. expected thin age cracks through the leaves. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 226 | SHIGEMASA: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL By Shigemasa, signed Shigemasa Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from stained wood in three different tones as a snail slithering down an upturned bucket, stretching its feelers out. The spiraling smooth shell and the rough texture of the body are masterfully worked. The bucket, as well, is carved true to life, showing the various hues of the wood and grain. Natural himotoshi through the body of the snail. Signature SHIGEMASA ȶȢ, heavily worn, on the top of the bucket. HEIGHT 4.8 cm Condition: One feeler is slightly chipped. The signature is worn down. Otherwise excellent condition. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Auction comparison: For another snail on bucket by Shigemasa see Christie’s, The Art of Japan, 5 December 2017, London, lot 15. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 182 183 229 | GYOKURYUSAI: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A TSUBA WITH CENTIPEDE By Gyokuryusai, signed Tokyo Gyokuryusai Japan, Tokyo, early Meiji period (1868-1912) Published: in Neil. K Davey, Netsuke, 1974, page 286. In the shape of a tsuba with one hitsu and finely carved in relief 228 | SEIYODO BUNSHOJO: A SUBLIME BOAR-TUSK with a crawling centipede. The surface of the tsuba is beautifully NETSUKE WITH SPIDER AND FERNS stained and stippled. Himotoshi through a loop carved inside the seppa-dai in the reverse. Signed in the front GYOKURYUSAI By Seiyodo Bunshojo (1764 – 1838), signed Nihon San’indo Iwami living at Tokyo. Enokawa Seiyodo Bunshojo chokoku Japan, Iwami province, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period HEIGHT 4.6 cm, LENGTH 3.9 cm (1615-1868) Condition: Good condition with concentric age cracks on the Published: Earle, Huthart, p.110, no.90. reverse. Provenance: Ex W.W. Winkworth, Ex Franks and Ex M.T Hindson collection. Carved from a choice, beautifully shimmering boar tusk with pronounced curvature. Towards the narrow end the artist has Estimate EUR 1.500,- carved a large spider in high relief with incised hair on its thick Starting price EUR 750,- segmented body, large fangs and inlaid eyes. The spider is carved with a superior sense of naturalism, which is extraordinarily rare for comparable Iwami tusk netsuke with spiders. Below the arachnid are delicately engraved ferns next to the signature and inscription 230 | A RARE INLAID EBONY WOOD reading SEIYODO BUNSHOJO нїࠧ NJˇƕ carved this by the Eno NETSUKE OF A WASP NEST River in the San’indo region of Japan. With a zoomorphic pot seal. Unsigned LENGTH 10.8 cm Japan, possibly Iwami, second half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Condition: Very good condition with natural veining and minor age cracks. Provenance: The Robert S. Huthart Collection. The wasp nest is carved from smoothed down ebony wood with rows of individual combs, many of them filled with larvae inlaid Seiyodo Bunshojo (1764 – 1838) was the eldest daughter of in bone or ivory. The sides show the ribbed surface of the nest, Seiyodo Tomiharu (1733 – 1811), the founder of the Iwami school. as well as two further wasps. The underside with the himotoshi Her work is deemed as of equal stature of her father’s and she underneath the attachment of the nest. The style of carving achieved widespread recognition as a professional artist by the suggests the Iwami school. men of her time – which was an incredibly rare feat in the Japan of the 18th century. LENGTH 4.5 cm Auction comparison: Compare to two similar boar tusk netsuke Condition: Excellent by Seiyodo Bunshojo, which also illustrate the superior carving of condition with appropriate the spider in the present netsuke. The first sold at Bonhams, The and pleasant surface wear. Robert S. Huthart Collection of Iwami Netsuke Part I, 15 May 2019, Provenance: European London, lot 47. The second sold at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi collection, acquired in Sale of Japanese Art. 8 November 2011, London, lot 247. Japan recently. Estimate EUR 8.000,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 600,- 184 185 MYTHICAL BEINGS - FANTASTIC CREATURES OF DIVINE CREATION 231 | MASATOYO: A VERY RARE AND IMPORTANT An ebony wood netsuke of a contorted smooth-skinned Kirin with EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A KIRIN flames emanating from its sides. The body forms a sinuous loop, functioning as natural himotoshi, its chin rests on its four feet and By Masatoyo, signed Tomita no ju Masatoyo and inscribed Unkei the tail forms another loop curling towards the end – what superior beneath the jaw design! The Kirin has a powerful, somewhat crazed expression, with Japan, Tomita, Iwami province, late 18th century, Edo period (1615- double inlaid eyes and a half-opened mouth showing its fangs with 1868) a loose ball inside. Signed and inscribed in tiny ukibori characters beneath the hindlegs MASATOYO ຩ牉, resident of Tomita; and Published: beneath the jaw Unkei in sosho characters, possibly a tribute to the Henri L. Joly, W. L Behrens Collection (1912/1966), p. 55. famous medieval sculptor Unkei. Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, Honolulu 1982, pp.88 (illustrated in color) and 1204. HEIGHT 4.9 cm NKSJ, vol.4, no.3, Fall 1984, p.25, fig.1. F. Meinertzhagen, MCI, Part A, p.480 (unillustrated). Condition: Superb condition. Eskenazi Ltd., Japanese Netsuke from the Lazarnick Collection, Provenance: Brockhaus collection (sold by Christie’s in 25.11.1980), London, 1990, p.74, no.54. then W. L. Behrens Collection, no.1442, then George Lazarnick Rokusho 20, p.73, no.106. Collection, no.144, then Robert S. Huthart Collection. Earle, Huthart, p.320, no.290. Burditt, ICLS, p.43, fig.19. From the list of publications, the exhibition history and the list of notable hands this piece went through, the importance of this Kirin Exhibited: becomes evident. Furthermore, it is carved by the incredibly rare The Honolulu Academy of Arts, Honolulu, 1985. artist Masatoyo and is the only netsuke of a Kirin from the Iwami province, therefore inevitably ending up in the hands of Robert S. Huthart. Before however it made its way from Brockhaus to the Behrens collection, with Henri Joly and W.W. Winkworth writing about it, then ending up in the Lazarnick collection, who had finally deciphered the ukibori signature recognizing it as the work of Masatoyo of Tomita. What a joy to be a part of this lineage! Estimate EUR 25.000,- Starting price EUR 12.500,- 186 187 233 | A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SUISEI Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Set on a base with a central himotoshi and depicting the mythical creature Suisei. The Suisei has one horn, bushy curls, flaming tail and hooves - all like a Kirin. However, what distinguishes it its carapace, like that of a turtle. The wood with a fine patina. HEIGHT 4.6 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 232 | A RARE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A KIRIN AS A DUCK 234 | A RARE STAINED WOOD NETSUKE Unsigned OF A DRAGON MOKUGYO Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned Japan, mid to late 19th century Depicting a reclining Kirin, its four hooves tucked underneath its body and touching one another. The posture immediately reminds one of a duck, and the mythological creatures has its beak-like Depicted is a dragon-headed mokugyo, an imaginary beast with mouth opened, imitating a duck. The Kirin has one horn flanked long swirling whiskers, large eyes inlaid in ivory with horn pupils, by two ears, long flowing whiskers, a scaly neck like that of a snake, and sharp fangs of ivory. The face is expressive, and the dragon has flames emanating from its body and a bushy tail like a Shishi. The a spiky mane. A loose ball inside makes this netsuke a functional double-inlaid eyes of pale and dark horn give it a wild enigmatic percussion instrument. The wood finely stained. One himotoshi expression. Good, large himotoshi through the underside and side. through the opening of the mokugyo and another by the right whisker. HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 3.5 cm HEIGHT 4 cm Condition: A section of the left ear is restored. Otherwise excellent condition. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: European collection. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 188 189 235 | A POWERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A BAYING KIRIN ATTRIBUTED TO MITSUHARU Unsigned, attributed to Mitsuharu Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely and powerfully carved as a Kirin, pupils inlaid in dark horn, the body and neck turned backwards, the head and snout turned upwards and letting out a hearty roar. Carved masterfully; the flaming, bushy tail curls upwards and touches the Kirin on the chin. The fatty tissue on the mythical animal’s haunches and the scales covering the body are carved with superior detail. The hooves are arranged in typical Mitsuharu fashion, lending further movement to the composition. Himotoshi through the side and underside. HEIGHT 6 cm Condition: One hoof is restored very well. Otherwise very good condition. Provenance: European private collection. The Kirin is derived from the Chinese mythical beast Qilin, one of the four divine creatures, the others being the dragon, phoenix and turtle. The Japanese Kirin is something of wild mythical fantasy – its most characteristic feature is of course the horn, as it is also called the Japanese unicorn. It has four legs with hooves and the hindlegs are covered with very well-expressed fatty tissue, like that of a Shishi. The rest of the body is covered in dense plumage, like that of a phoenix. Auction comparison: Compare to a very similar netsuke sold by Van Ham, Asiatische Kunst, 12 June 2019, Cologne, lot 2233. Estimate EUR 7.000,- Starting price EUR 3.500,- 190 191 237 | A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TENGU Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A classic and finely executed model of a hatching tengu, known as tengu no tomago. The tengu is climbing out of the egg and supporting itself on the edge of the cracked shell. The eyes are glaring and inlaid in pale translucent horn. The facial features, such as the pointed beak, and the feathers at the back are very well carved. Large and very good himotoshi through the underside and side. HEIGHT 3.8 cm Condition: Very good condition; minor negligible surface scratches in the wood. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 236 | A WOOD NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TENGU Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from dark wood and depicting a hatching tengu (tengu no tomago) lifting itself with both hands to emerge from a smoothly polished egg. The style of the tengu is quite unique. Only one wing and part of the back is visible with finely incised lines for feathers. The head is round with large eyes and a wide beak, giving the mythical creature an amusing expression. Deep himotoshi through the underside of the egg. HEIGHT 3.4 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cm Condition: Excellent condition, good patina with a beautiful lustrous polish. Provenance: Private Long Island Collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 192 193 238 | TADAKUNI: A VERY RARE AND FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO KAPPA By Tadakuni, signed Tadakuni Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Neil K. Davey, Netsuke,1974, no. 574 F. Meinertzhagen, MCI Part B, New York, 1986, page 837. A superbly detailed and fine carving of two young kappa, facing in opposite directions, atop three conjoined rocks adorned with finely engraved vines and leaves. The scaly creatures have precisely incised hair and finely crafted, enigmatic expressions with minutely inlaid eyes. One of them is holding a fish. Signed beneath the bridge, separating the very good himotoshi, TADAKUNI ฑř in raised ukibori characters. HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 3.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition with a stunning patina. Provenance: Ex W.W Winkworth collection, Ex M.T Hindson collection sold at Sotheby’s 9 July 1968, London, lot 620. Tadakuni of Nagoya was a pupil of Tadatoshi, though arguably more brilliant than the latter and considerably rarer, since his output was rather limited. As evident in the present netsuke he was capable of individual design. Neil. K. Davey states that they are kappa-like creatures and fanciful creations of the artist, a man of creative genius. Furthermore, Neil K. Davey and F. Meinertzhagen state that this netsuke is extremely fine and very fine, respectively. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 194 195 239 | AN EXCELLENT TALL IVORY NETSUKE OF A FOX PRIEST Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A tall ivory netsuke of a kitsune (fox) disguised as a fully clothed and hooded priest and holding a long bamboo cane with its human hands in front of its body. Its long foxlike head is lowered and turned to the right. The sly expression is achieved masterfully with small inlaid pupils of black horn and a slightly opened mouth, baring teeth. An interesting and rare addition are the incised ferns which cover its face partially, creating a unique appeal. The backside continuing the wonderful treatment of the priestly robe and with a beautiful yellowish patina with dark spots of amber brown. Very good and large himotoshi. HEIGHT 10.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with expected age cracks and a stunning patina. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Kitsune are creatures imbued with magical powers and are known to have the ability of shapeshifting. They are also believed to be animated by the devils. Auction comparison: For a figure of comparable size and quality see Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 73. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 196 197 242 | KAGETOSHI: A MARINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RUNNING SHISHI AMIDST FLOWERING PEONY 240 | CHOKUSEN: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A KITSUNE AS DARUMA By Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi Japan, Kyoto, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) By Chokusen, signed Chokusen (Naoyama) Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Carved as a Shishi with an impish expression and inlaid horn pupils, depicted in mid-leap with its hind legs extended over a stand of Compactly carved as a hooded kitsune (fox), almost completely peonies, and the front legs on a section of rockwork. The carving is enveloped in his sparsely engraved robe, and holding a hossu executed in sukashi-bori (openwork), a technique which Kagetoshi (Buddhist fly whisk). The sly creature is imitating the Zen-patriarch pioneered and became famous for. The underside shows the rocky Daruma. The ivory is finely stained in a caramel tone and the pupils structure, central himotoshi and signature KAGETOSHI բϙ in a are inlaid in dark horn. Small himotoshi through the reverse and raised rectangular reserve. signature CHOKUSEN ˢͪ (Naoyama) on the underside. HEIGHT 2.5 cm HEIGHT 3.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Amazingly, this fragile carving has Condition: Excellent condition. remained undamaged. Provenance: European collection. Provenance: Austrian private collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 750,- 241 | KOMIN: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A MINOGAME By Komin, signed Komin Japan, Tokyo, latter half of 19th century The minogame is shown with a finely carved long ‘straw-raincoat’ tail, a turtle shell and the head of a dragon with long ears which LENGTH 6.6 cm form archaistic curls at the base. Its head is raised with an amusing 243 | A RARE UMIMATSU NETSUKE expression enhanced by double inlaid eyes of reddish and black Condition: Very good condition with spots of yellowish patina. OF A SHISHI ON ROCK horn. Good asymmetrical himotoshi on the underside of the Provenance: The Kolodotschko Collection. carapace and signature KOMIN ᆘΦ in a plain reserve on the Unsigned tail. This type of a minogame with dragon head and on its own is Estimate EUR 1.000,- Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) incredibly rare. Starting price EUR 500,- An umimatsu, also known as sea-pine, netsuke depicting a Shishi curiously raising one paw on top a rock. The material shows beautiful reddish hues. The underside with large himotoshi. HEIGHT 3.5 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cm Condition: Very good condition, with typical crackling. Provenance: Purchased from Ohmura, Hamburg in 1971 with collection no. 880 inside the himotoshi. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 198 199 245 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF THREE FIGHTING SHISHI Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An animated group depicting three fighting Shishi. The adult Shishi on the bottom is being ambushed by another adult and young. The young bites into his bushy tail, while the adult climbs on top of him, ferociously snarling. The poor lion dog tries to defend himself, as he is visibly frightened, kicking the jaw of his attacker. The two adults both have a loose ball inside their mouths. The bushy curls of the three Shishi are expressively carved. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi through the underside. Beautiful patina. HEIGHT 3.3 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: One old, smooth chip to the edge of the lower Shishi’s left front paw. Otherwise very good condition with an appealing patina. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 246 | A FINE AND AMUSING IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI 244 | A LARGE AND POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHISHI WITH YOUNG Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period Unsigned (1615-1868) Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Energetically carved as a recumbent A powerful and boldly carved, large wood netsuke of a Shishi with its young Shishi with its front paws pushed afore climbing over its back. The piece is dominated by a strong patina and mighty and left hindleg touching its curling bushy curls. The adult Shishi has one paw firmly placed on a brocade ball, beard. The Shishi has a finely carved with a loose ball inside, and has its head turned, powerfully snarling with large bushy tail and a curling mane. The inlaid eyes. The younger Shishi on the adult’s back has a grim expression. The expression is wild with inlaid pupils, a underside with himotoshi. wide-opened mouth with a loose ball inside, a reishi nose and floppy ears. The HEIGHT 4.6 cm, LENGTH 6.5 cm ivory of a beautiful color, patinated and with incised swirls as tufts of hair. Good Condition: The right front paw of the adult Shishi is lost. One inlaid eye of the himotoshi through the underside. younger Shishi is lost. Otherwise good condition with a strong patina. Provenance: British private collection. LENGTH 5.2 cm Literature comparison: For a similar netsuke with one Shishi carved in a very Condition: Excellent condition with a similar manner, and signed Tomotada, see Bernard Hurtig, Masterpieces of beautiful glossy patina. Netsuke Art, New York, 1973, no. 823. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 200 201 WONDERS OF STAG ANTLER & ASAKUSA SCHOOL 248 | A RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A SHISHI Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from the base of the antler, the coronet still visible and used as the pedestal for the Shishi. The lion dog is seated, all four paws firmly placed on the ground, and shows an amusingly anthropomorphic expression, with human-like teeth and an enigmatic expression with large eyes. The back of the head with finely carved curls, one of them flowing downwards to the very good himotoshi, one larger and one smaller – exactly as they should be. HEIGHT 5 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 247 | A LARGE POWERFUL IVORY 249 | A RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE NETSUKE OF A SHISHI OF A ROARING SHISHI WITH BALL Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerful and bold netsuke carved from a thick piece of ivory of This netsuke belongs to the rare group of Kyoto stag antler netsuke triangular section. Depicted is a roaring Shishi with bared fangs, of the late 18th century. The aji (patina) on this netsuke is a sight to reishi nose, large eyes with inlaid pupils, floppy ears, heavily inked behold and completely unique to this difficult material. Depicted is fur and dense finely carved bushy curls covering its tail, beard and a roaring Shishi with powerfully carved curls placing its large paws head. All its four legs are pushed in front of its body in a powerful, on a smooth ball. Good, large himotoshi through the under- and though slightly awkward, stance – the Shishi is trying to impress, backside. though it appears to be rather docile and overcompensating. The artist has managed this humoristic aspect very well. Himotoshi HEIGHT 4.4 cm through the underside and side, though there are also natural openings present. Condition: Excellent condition with many typical inclusions and a beautiful glossy patina. HEIGHT 3.8 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cm Provenance: Hungarian collection. Condition: Very good condition, expected age-related wear with a Literature comparison: For a short discussion on 18th century good patina. Kyoto stag antler netsuke see Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-antler Provenance: British collection. Carving in Japan’, Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., 2016, pages 34-36. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 500,- 202 203 250 | MASAYUKI: A FINE WALRUS IVORY NETSUKE OF A SHISHI ON MOKUGYO By Hoshunsai Masayuki, signed Masayuki Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa school, second half of 19th century 251 | A RARE ASAKUSA SCHOOL IVORY The Shishi is seated on top a mokugyo (temple bell), mischievously NETSUKE OF A SHISHI INCENSE BURNER grinning with one paw raised and its long tail trailing down the handle of the mokugyo. The handle of the mokugyo terminates on Unsigned both ends in two neatly incised swirling curls resembling the tail of Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa School, late 19th century the Shishi. 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 silver-rimmed central himotoshi and A finely stained ivory ryusa-manju style netsuke in the shape of signature MASAYUKI Ȣƥ. an incense burner, decorated on the sides with a bat and reishi. The raised lid is carved in openwork with a prancing Shishi looking HEIGHT 4.3 cm backwards. The underside with a central himotoshi surrounded by three bean-shaped openings, giving the impression of a stylized Condition: Good condition. Possibly and old worn-down smooth face – typical for the Asakusa school. chip to the front paw of the Shishi and the silver-rimmed himotoshi has been replaced. HEIGHT 2 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Provenance: British private collection. Condition: One of the handles on the side is ever so slightly Literature comparison: Compare to Kokusai the Genius: and chipped. Thin age cracks. Generally, in good condition. Stag-antler Carving in Japan’, Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., 2016, no. 352, Provenance: French private collection. unsigned but attributed to Rensai, using the same bonji character saku. The present netsuke also shows some similarities to Rensai’s Estimate EUR 1.200,- work. Starting price EUR 600,- Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 252 | A RARE ASAKUSA SCHOOL WALRUS IVORY NETSUKE OF A KAPPA, LOTUS AND FROG Unsigned Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa, mid-19th century A fine study, set on a lotus leaf, and depicting a smooth frog (kaeru) grabbing hold of the leg of a kappa who holds on to the stem of a crumpled lotus leaf. The entire composition is depicted in motion, with the animals arranged in a circle hunting each other. The inclusions of this rare material almost appear like stag antler, giving it a unique appeal. The depiction of the kappa is quite interesting – with a ferocious expression showing fangs on the corner of its mouth, long hair, pointed ears, a large carapace and scaly body – very much reminiscent of Nintendo’s Bowser. The frog is very much in the manner of Rensai, and the carver of this netsuke is probably a hand not too far from the master. Himotoshi through the stem of the lotus leaf on the underside. HEIGHT 2 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: Very good condition with few age cracks and natural imperfections and inclusions. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke sold by Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, Vienna, lot 164. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 204 205 253 | A MAGNIFICENT AND RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A KAPPA NINGYO ATTRIBUTED TO OZAKI KOKUSAI Unsigned, attributed to Osaki Kokusai (1835-1892) Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa, mid to late 19th century Brilliantly carved in openwork depicting a mermaid (ningyo) with a long fish-like tail, supple breasts and the head of a kappa, surrounded by dense and crashing stylized waves. The fantastic mythical creature holds on to the wave-frame and to a spray of another wave, the hands crisply carved and the movement of the composition achieved masterfully, as if the imaginary beast was floating through a sea of waves. One can only image what it would be like to be serenaded by this mysterious being. The head is slightly turned to the right, the mouth is slightly opened, and the eyes are large and wide-open – a truly enigmatic expression. The difficult material is masterfully utilized, in typical Kokusai fashion, carved from a branch point near the coronet, and showing a wonderful gnarly structure on the sides. Unsigned, however confidently attributed to Ozaki Kokusai. Natural himotoshi. HEIGHT 3.1 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: French private collection. Ozaki Kokusai (1835-1892), whose real name was Ozaki Soso, was the founder of the famous Asakusa school in Tokyo, which was the center for stag antler carving in Japan during the latter half of the 19th century, and produced, in their own right, some of the greatest masterpieces of netsuke art from difficult materials. He was a modernist, though he still had ties to tradition. Like Shibata Zeshin, he lived through the dramatic change between the Edo and Meiji periods and utilized his genius to combine traditionalist ideas with ambitious modern ideas, leading the way into modern Japan, also exhibited in this netsuke with the birth of this fantastic creature. Literature comparison: Compare the manner of the expression to a similar netsuke by Ozaki Kokusai in Kokusai the Genius: and Stag- antler Carving in Japan’, Sydney L. Moss, Ltd., 2016, no. 119. Estimate EUR 8.000,- Starting price EUR 4.000,- 206 207 255 | A STUNNING STAG ANTLER RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH RAIN DRAGON AND REISHI Unsigned Japan, Asakusa school, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Brilliantly carved in openwork forming a dense composition of a rain dragon amidst thick stalks of reishi mushrooms enveloping the celestial being like clouds. The rain dragon, with strong facial features, is grasping his own furcated tail, which twists around the entire composition, at times intertwining with the reishi. The antler material is heavily porous, brilliantly utilized by the artist, and of strong caramel color. The backside with natural himotoshi formed by a beautifully dark and porous intersection of three thick reishi mushrooms. LENGTH 4.4 cm, THICKNESS 1.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Austrian collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 254 | A FINE WALRUS IVORY RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE WITH DRAGON Unsigned Japan, Asakusa school, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1968) Published: Henri L. Joly, W. L Behrens Collection (1912/1966), no. 1523. Masterfully hollowed out and carved in openwork with a depiction of a central coiled dragon, in Chinese style, surrounded by clouds and bands with an archaistic key-fret design. The reverse with central floral himotoshi and with further pierced petals, effectively creating a double flower. The sides completely carved in openwork with a wavy concentric band. DIAMETER 4.1 cm, THICKNESS 2 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: Walter L. Behrens collection, no. 1523. Then European private collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 208 209 257 | ISHIMUNE: A FINE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A SKULL WITH SNAKES By Ishimune, signed Ishimune Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Minutely carved from stag antler as a miniature skull with two slithering snakes coiling around it, their eyes inlaid in pink coral. The piece is an eerily exact copy of a skull, and that at 2.4 cm tall! The material is brilliantly utilized, and the porous surface adds to the desired effect, conveying a feeling of death and the evanescence of life. A morbidly fascinating sculpture! Himotoshi through the underside, the other hidden within, and signature in the back ISHIMUNE ܉ඐ. HEIGHT 2.4 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Czech private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 256 | A BRILLIANT STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A SKULL WITH SNAKES Unsigned 258 | A RARE AND UNUSUAL STAG ANTLER Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN Unsigned Brilliantly carved as a morbid depiction of a skull with a slithering Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) snake coiling around. The thick, scaly body of the snake curls around, its parted tongue touching the top of the right eye-socket and the eyes inlaid in dark horn. The anatomy of the skull is precise, Carved from a piece of antler near the coronet, the large wide hat and the feeling of death and the evanescence of life is masterfully of the foreigner (most likely a Dutchman) resembling the natural evoked. The use of material is brilliant, with the spongiform and structure of the coronet, brilliantly utilized for this work. The porous surface barely visible, only on the underside, where it foreigner has long legs and his chin is leaning on his thighs, as evokes an eerie feeling. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the he sticks his long tongue out with an amusingly grotesque facial underside. expression. Himotoshi through the back and underside. HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cm HEIGHT 3.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Condition: Excellent condition with natural ‘flaws’ in the material. Provenance: European collection. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 500,- 210 211 260 | HIDETOMO: A LARGE AND RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A CHINESE MAN WITH SQUIRREL By Hidetomo, signed Hidetomo Japan, mid-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Barry Davies Oriental Art, Netsuke and Inro from European Collections (London, 2002), no. 80. Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji Art (Munich, 2004), no.180. A Chinese man, wearing an antique buttoned Chinese dress, is holding a leash in one hand to which a squirrel is attached. The squirrel, with large inlaid eyes, is lying across the man’s shoulder with its leg and tail trailing down his back and resting its chin on the man’s hand which holds the squirrel by its collar. A very unusual and possibly unique depiction. Very large himotoshi through the back and signature in a rectangular raised plaque HIDETOMO লƤ. HEIGHT 11.8 cm Condition: Some wear around the himotoshi and a minor loss to the tail of the squirrel. The legs are a later addition. Provenance: Collection Dr. John Strong, then sold by Barry Davies, then Galerie Gemini & Ichimonji art, then Luxembourg private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 259 | A GOOD STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from a beautiful honey-colored piece of antler with barely any imperfections and depicting a smiling, standing Dutchman holding a fan and wearing a large hat. Very good angled and asymmetrical himotoshi through the reverse. The simplicity of the subject and use of material are harmonious. HEIGHT 5.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Swiss private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 212 213 261 | A STAG ANTLER NETSUKE OF A DOG ON A CUSHION Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from heavily porous antler and depicting a dog lying curled up on a lobed cushion. The underside is black and porous and shows one larger himotoshi, with the smaller one through the back of the dog. Facing the difficult restrictions of this material, the artist did a sublime job creating a charming study of a snoozing dog. HEIGHT 2.2 cm, LENGTH 3.9 cm Condition: Very good condition with many typical inclusions. The underside with natural wear around the himotoshi revealing the spongiform structure inside. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 262 | A RARE STAG ANTLER 263 | A RARE STAG ANTLER NETSUKE NETSUKE OF OKAME OF A TOAD AND FROG ON BAMBOO Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A compact and charming ivory netsuke of a mischievously grinning An unusual netsuke carved from stag antler and depicting a Okame, holding the hem of her finely decorated robe and covering dominant, fat and warty toad (gama) grabbing a smooth-skinned her mouth, laughing. The Shinto goddess’s head is of slightly phallic frog (kaeru) and pulling him up a stalk of bamboo. The frog proportions with large chubby cheeks and a high forehead. Her struggles to climb up and one leg is extended and trails all the way long hair is beautifully incised and falls towards the ground. The use down. Amusingly, there is certainly no space for the poor frog. The of material is masterful, with little porous surfaces visible (notably warts of the larger toad are crafted masterfully and are enhanced only on the top of her head) – the material almost appearing like by the structure of the antler material. Both amphibians have inlaid ivory. Himotoshi through the back. eyes of black horn. Himotoshi through the hollow bamboo stalk and underneath the backside of the toad. HEIGHT 5.1 cm HEIGHT 5 cm Condition: Minor expected wear to the decorations of the garment. Very good condition. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: European collection. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- Starting price EUR 750,- 214 215 FINE KAGAMIBUTA - METALWORKERS ENTERING THE NEW AGE 264 | RYUSAI: A LARGE ASAKUSA SCHOOL OBI- HASAMI STAG ANTLER NETSUKE WITH REISHI By Ryusai, signed Ryusai with seal koku Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa School, second half of 19th century A large obi-hasami (inserted into the belt) stag antler netsuke in the form of a long growth of eight reishi mushrooms, attached to one thick stem, beautifully and elegantly intertwining with each other. The surface of the reishi is rough and bendy and the material is 265 | A FINE IVORY AND MIXED METAL brilliantly utilized, with most of the ‘useless’ spongiform and porous KAGAMIBUTA WITH SHOKI AND ONI surface hidden within. Reishi fungus are a symbol for longevity, and the number eight is considered lucky – making this an emblem of Unsigned long life and luck. Signed RYUSAI with seal koku . School of ( ୌ Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868 Ozaki Kokusai. HEIGHT 22.8 cm The bowl made from ivory and the lid made of shakudo with gilt details. Shoki has a full beard and wide hat, his face showing a Condition: A section (roughly 2.5 cm) of a stem of one reishi has characteristically grim expression. Next to him is a menacingly been restored. Otherwise excellent condition. smiling horned oni, its head made from copper with finely gilt Provenance: British collection, previously offered at Bonhams, Fine details. An iris flower (shobu), which is meant to dispel demons, is Japanese Art, 10 November 2016, lot 327. shown behind them. Central himotoshi through the back and cord attachment on the back of the inset lid. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- DIAMETER 4.2 cm Condition: The bowl with crack and missing the metal ring around the himotoshi. Otherwise good condition. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 266 | A FINE KAGAMIBUTA OF A MASK CARVER Unsigned Japan, second half of 19th century Fitted in a superb ivory bowl with a shibuichi plate depicting a mask carver, chiseling and hammering at a large, grim oni mask. The details are finely inlaid in copper and gold. Central himotoshi through the reverse and cord attachment on the back of the plate. DIAMETER 4.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: European collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 216 217 268 | RYUMIN AND TENMIN: A RARE MIXED METAL KAGAMIBUTA OF EMMA-O AND COURTESAN By Serizawa Ryumin (born ca. 1836) and Shojo Tenmin (ca. 1799 – 1874), The kagamibuta signed Ryumin and kakihan, and the silver inlay signed Tenmin O and kakihan Japan, Tokyo, second half of 19th century Set in an ivory bowl and fitted with a shibuichi plate inlaid with Emma-o (the king of hell) mischievously laughing, and looking and pointing at a courtesan’s reflection in the mirror of hell. The details are inlaid in copper, silver and gold. The depiction is quite amusing, as it is poking fun at the king of hell for his guilty pleasures. The mirror of hell is inlaid in silver and finely incised with the image of the courtesan, and signed TENMIN ĐΦ o (in his old age) with kakihan. The shibuichi plate is signed RYUMIN ӐΦ with kakihan. Central himotoshi in the backside and cord attachment through the back of the plate. DIAMETER 5 cm Condition: Very good condition, the ivory plate slightly worn. Provenance: Hungarian collection. A rare collaboration between two metalwork artists, master and pupil. Tenmin, founder of an important kagamibuta school with many students, collaborating in his old age with an accomplished pupil. Auction comparison: A similar example was sold at Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Japanese Art Part I, 9 November 2010, London, lot 154. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 267 | MOTOHARU: A SUPERB KAGAMIBUTA OF A SMOKING BIJIN By Fujita Motoharu (born 1796), signed Motoharu with kakihan Set in a superbly finished, shimmering ivory bowl and fitted with Japan, Hitachi province, second half of 19th century a shibuichi plate depicting a seated Bijin holding a long pipe, with a large mokugyo at her feet and a hossu (Buddhist fly whisk) 269 | A RARE AND LARGE MIXED Published: Lazarnick, George, Netsuke and Inro Artists, Honolulu below her. Above her in gold kinzogan is a senryu (satirical poem METAL AND LACQUER 1982, p. 803. of the masses) meaning more or less, “Literally, people lose their MANJU NETSUKE sense in the presence of the skin that covers the bones”. Basically, meaning that people are blinded by good looks or sexuality. The Unsigned details are inlaid with copper and an abundance of rich gold, Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) including the kakihan, which is found to the right above the rare signature MOTOHARU ʻԛ. Central himotoshi in the back and cord attachment through the back of the shibuichi plate. A very unusual and rare netsuke - rather large, heavy and of elongated manju shape. Set in a shimmering roiro-nuri black DIAMETER 4.5 cm lacquered wood bowl, with one further elevated surface of copper and inset with a mixed metal plaque consisting of shakudo, silver Condition: Excellent condition. and gold and depicting the lucky god Hotei inside his treasure bag. Provenance: European collection. The reverse with a silvered-brass cord attachment above a stylized floral mon. Fujita Motoharu was a metalwork artist of the Mito school and student of Taizan Motozane. LENGTH 6 cm Auction comparison: For a kozuka by the artist showing a related Condition: Some scratches to the rim of the black lacquered bowl. subject see Bonhams, The Edward Wrangham Collection of Generally, in very good condition. Japanese Art Part I, 9 November 2010, London, lot 50. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 218 219 LACQUER NETSUKE 272 | KYUSAI: A FINE STAINED IVORY NETSUKE OF A FEATHER ON CHARCOAL LOG By Tetsugendo Kyusai (1879-1938), signed Kyusai Japan, Osaka, early 20th century 270 | AN INLAID IVORY AND LACQUER TWO PART MANJU WITH PLUM BLOSSOMS A naturalistically carved piece of charcoal made from heavily polished, stained and lacquered ivory, with a partially stained ivory Unsigned feather placed on top, attached by little screws. Both are objects Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) used for tea ceremony. The himotoshi are executed cleverly – one as an elongated opening seamlessly integrated into the design and the other as a removable section with an attachment for the cord. The front of the ivory manju decorated with a gold takamaki-e tree Signed KYUSAI ᬌᑚ in a raised rectangular reserve. and inlaid in shibayama style with mother of pearl plum (ume) blossoms and the buds inlaid in coral. Central himotoshi through LENGTH 5 cm the back and cord attachment on the inside. Condition: Excellent condition. DIAMETER 4.7 cm Provenance: European private collection. Condition: Good condition, two age cracks on the inside – one of Literature comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke attributed them just barely visible beside the top of the gold lacquered tree. to Kaigyokusai Masatsugu formerly in the Bushell collection and Provenance: British collection. currently in the LACMA, accession number 1998.249.185. Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 750,- 271 | A RARE LACQUER NETSUKE OF A STYLIZED SPARROW Unsigned Japan, second half of 19th century In the form of a stylized sparrow (suzume), a lucky charm, covered in fine gold lacquer and decorated in gold takamaki-e with floral motifs, pine and wisteria. The tail feathers are inlaid in horn with a gold and black lacquered geometrical designs resembling stylized feathers. The crest of the bird is made from a concentric band of horn topped off with bone and semiprecious stones. The underside with silver lacquer and himotoshi. HEIGHT 2.3 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cm Condition: Good condition with minor wear to lacquer, and the inlay to the tail feathers is slightly loose. Provenance: Helen and Jack Mang collection Netsuke, offered at Quinn’s Auction Galleries, 7 December 2012, lot 318. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 220 221 273 | A LACQUERED IVORY NETSUKE 275 | A LACQUERED PRESSED HORN NETSUKE OF A BOY OF A DRUNKEN SHOJO Unsigned Unsigned Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Japan, around 1900, Meiji period (1868-1912) The laughing boy is dressed in an ornately decorated jacket, Shown holding a ladle and gleefully laughing. Her face and hair the details in red, black and gold lacquer showing various fine lacquered in red. Himotoshi in the back. geometrical patterns in takamaki-e. The boy has sensitively crafted facial features. Small himotoshi through the underside. HEIGHT 4.4 cm HEIGHT 3.1 cm Condition: Some wear, cracks and losses. Generally, in good condition. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. Provenance: Czech private collection. Estimate EUR 400,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 200,- Starting price EUR 400,- 274 | A CHARMING LACQUERED WOOD NETSUKE OF A BOY WITH SHISHIMAI MASK Unsigned Japan, second half of 19th century 276 | A LARGE LACQUERED WOOD NETSUKE An unusual and charming composition. The boy, carved from pale OF SAMBASO ACCOUTREMENTS stained wood, is wearing a vest and holding up a Shishimai mask, with a movable jaw and lacquered in red. His facial expression is Unsigned quite amusing and delicately carved. The boy has a round face with Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) minutely inlaid eyes and his hair is finely incised and inked. The underside shows his genitals and natural himotoshi through his crossed legs. A gold lacquered wood netsuke depicting a ‘bell tree’ and a fan which are used for the Sambaso dance. This dance originates from HEIGHT 4.2 cm the Noh play Okina and involves the old man (Okina) performing a lively and humorous dance with a fan and hand bells. The entire Condition: The left foot netsuke is covered in gold lacquer, with details in hiramaki-e and is restored. Otherwise the fan is decorated with clouds of fine nashiji. The underside is excellent condition. fitted with a silver mount with a ring attached which functions as Provenance: European the himotoshi. Likely this was part of the sagemono of a Noh actor collection. and was used often as it is characteristically rubbed on the high points. The shape and movement of the composition very much The Shishimai festival mirrors the act of the dance. was imported from China during the Tang dynasty HEIGHT 5.5 cm and is celebrated during the New Year to bring Condition: Loss to lacquer in some areas consistent with age and good luck and ward off evil use. spirits. Provenance: French private collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- Starting price EUR 500,- 222 223 MASKS 277 | AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MAN WITH TENGU MASK ATTRIBUTED TO HIDEMASA Unsigned, attributed to Hidemasa Japan, Osaka, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved as a man wearing an unusual hat and a kimono decorated with cloud designs, holding a tasseled mask of a karasu-tengu in front of him. The juxtaposition of the man’s expression and the grim tengu mask is quite amusing and achieved very well. The backside with asymmetrical himotoshi. Attributed to Shuosai Hidemasa of Osaka. HEIGHT 5.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor expected age cracks and wear. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 279 | MIBOKU: A VERY RARE MIXED METAL NETSUKE OF A NOH SHOJO DANCER By Otsuryuken Miboku, signed Miboku 278 | A GROTESQUE IVORY NETSUKE Japan, mid to late 19th century OF A KABUKI ACTOR Unsigned Depicting a Noh actor as a Shojo dancer made from finely engraved Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) shibuichi with a gilt face and gilt shoes. The mythological being with finely engraved long hair is notorious for her drunkenness. Here the actor mimics her drunken pose with a dancing posture, The kabuki actor is standing in a dancing posture, with one leg her robe with finely engraved details. Signed MIBOKU ಯ in a raised above the other, wearing an eboshi and holding two mallets rectangular silver inlaid cartouche on the underside. next to his face, on which he wears a grotesque mask from a Kabuki play. The apron is carved in relief with a dragon, with inlaid eyes, HEIGHT 5.9 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cm, WIDTH 2.5 cm whose expression is amusingly very much like that of the mask. Good patina and large himotoshi in the back. Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and oxidation. Provenance: European collection. HEIGHT 8 cm Otsuryuken Miboku of the important Hamano school was Condition: Very good condition with good patina. a metalworker and maker of sword fittings. When demand Provenance: Luxembourg private collection. subsequently decreased during the latter half of the 19th century he started making netsuke, though mostly kagamibuta. Figural Kabuki is a traditional form of comedy theatre often performed in netsuke are extremely rare by this artist, and the present netsuke is the intermissions of Noh-plays. exemplary of his superior workmanship in metal. Estimate EUR 800,- Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 400,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 224 225 280 | KAGETOSHI: A RARE 282 | KOHOSAI: A VERY RARE NARWHAL IVORY HAKO TRICK TUSK MANJU NETSUKE WITH MASKS NETSUKE WITH MASKS By Ueda Kohosai, signed genji gannen kino-ne shunjitsu Kohosai kore wo koku By Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi Japan, Osaka, dated 1864, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, second half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from a thick cross-section of a narwhal tusk, incredibly rare, Published: M. Rutherston, and carved in shishiabori (sunken relief) with three masks including Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, an impressive Hannya mask. The reverse fitted with a shibuichi loop 2017, no. 31. for cord attachment and signed KOHOSAI ȓ kore wo koku with a date of Genji first year, equivalent to 1864. The outer ridge and concentric grain of this rare material is a sight to behold and A very unusual piece which does seamlessly integrated into the design. not appear to be a netsuke at all, at first glance. However, after closer DIAMETER 5.3 cm examination, it certainly is – and a wonderfully functional and luxurious Condition: Very good condition with natural crackling. one. The matchbox shaped hako Provenance: British collection. (container) is engraved with intricately worked vines and leaves Estimate EUR 2.500,- all over, with an inset ivory mask of Starting price EUR 1.250,- Okina on the top – a hint of what is to be revealed inside! The underside shows an opening with himotoshi, where a drawer can be pushed out to reveal two further, removable but perfectly fitted, masks of Jo and Uba. Signed KAGETOSHI բϙ in a rectangular reserve. SIZE 1.6 x 4.8 x 3.9 cm (H x L x W) Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Acquired from Zacke, Netsuke und Shin Hanga & Sosaku Hanga - Exhibition 2009, hence Peter E. Müller mask collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 281 | SEKKO: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF OBJECTS FOR THE NOH PLAY OKINA By Sekko, signed Sekko Japan, second half of 19th century Finely carved and stained as a mask box with the mask of Okina carved on top, next to an eboshi hat – both objects used for the Noh play Okina. The mask box is crisply carved, finely engraved on the sides and tied together – one is tempted to open it. The underside shows the tassles of the hat and signature underneath the mask box in a rounded reserve SEKKO ᆘ. Himotoshi through the mask box. HEIGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 4.5 cm Condition: There is some old damage to one side of the masks box and to the backside of the hat – possibly they were once joined together. Otherwise fine condition. Provenance: Hungarian collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 226 227 283 | A LACQUERED WOOD 285 | A RARE LACQUERED WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF OKAME NETSUKE OF HANNYA Unsigned Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, no. 115. 2017, no. 222. Carved and lacquered in black and silver as the mask of the Shinto Carved and lacquered in black with brownish hues, depicting goddess Okame, Himotoshi through the central bridge in the the wrathful female demon Hannya. She is shown with reverse. expressively curling hair and small horns. Her black pupils surrounded by gilt-lacquer give her a haunted expression HEIGHT 4.6 cm showing the deep melancholy inflicted upon her jealousy. Himotoshi through a thick central bridge in the backside. Condition: Minor wear to lacquer. Good condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. HEIGHT 5.2 cm Estimate EUR 800,- Condition: Very good condition, minor wear to lacquer. Starting price EUR 400,- Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 284 | TSUYAMA: A LACQUERED WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF BUAKU 286 | HOKKA: A LACQUERED WOOD By Tsuyama, signed Tsuayama MASK NETSUKE OF AN ONI Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Signed Hokka (Hokke) Japan, dated 1919 Carved from wood and applied with silver over gold lacquer. The silver layer polished to reveal the gold teeth. Depicted is the Kyogen Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, mask of Buaku, comically biting into his lip. The mask is seen as no. 129. the Kyogen version of Noh Beshimi. The himotoshi in the reverse formed by a central bridge in the form of a neatly carved ribbon. on the underside. Carved and lacquered as the mask of an oni. The face is lacquered ͪۆ Signed TSUYAMA in red with fiery brows in black. The backside unlacquered with HEIGHT 4.3 cm large himotoshi and signature HOKKA (Hokke) and inscribed with cyclical date corresponding to 1919. Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: British private collection. HEIGHT 4.7 cm This artist is very rare and another example of a Buaku mask carved Condition: Minor wear to lacquer. Good condition. from Rhinoceros horn with a similar style of himotoshi is in the Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Behrens collection (H.L Joly) no. 158. Estimate EUR 600,- Estimate EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 300,- Starting price EUR 300,- 228 229 288 | A RARE HORNBILL IVORY MASK NETSUKE OF AN ONI Unsigned Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 139. A finely carved and powerful depiction of an oni. The horns are unusual and probably inspired by a European faun-devil. The mask netsuke is carved from hornbill ivory (honen), a rare material brilliantly utilized here, with the red section of the bill visible on the sides. Himotoshi through the central bridge in the reverse. HEIGHT 4.2 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Auction comparison: For a similar netsuke by Jugyoku see Sotheby’s, The Katchen Collection of Netsuke, 8 November 2005, London, lot 65. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 287 | ITTOKUSAI: A POWERFUL IVORY MASK NETSUKE OF AN ONI By Ittokusai, signed Ittokusai Japan, second half of 19th century Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 135. Exhibited. Carved as a viciously grinning horned oni, bared teeth with sharp fangs, large nose and pointed ears. His bushy hair is curling, and his furrowed brows and beard are flaming. A central bridge on the reverse forms the himotoshi, where also the signature ITTOKUSAI Ă䉾 is located. HEIGHT 4.5 cm Condition: Age cracks and minor wear to ivory. Good condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller mask collection. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 230 231 289 | A LARGE WOOD MASK NETSUKE 291 | A WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF SHISHIGUCHI OF A MITSUNE KOZO ATTRIBUTED TO RYUKEI SCHOOL Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Unsigned, attributed to Ryukei school Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 67. Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 143. Expressively carved as the mask of Shishiguchi (lion’s mouth). Himotoshi through the central bridge on the reverse. A large wood mask netsuke of a bakemono, most likely Mitsune Kozo, expressively carved, with three eyes inlaid in ivory, sharp HEIGHT 4.9 cm fangs and sharp horns. The backside with himotoshi formed by a lobed bridge forming two stylized leaves – this and the style of Condition: Old repair to the jaw. Otherwise good condition. carving with inlays is typical for the Ryukei school. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. HEIGHT 5.4 cm Estimate EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 300,- Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Netsuke Collection. Estimate EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 500,- 292 | AN UNUSUAL WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF MAN WITH WIDE-OPENED MOUTH Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no.188. Carved as a bearded man with a wide-opened mouth with traces of 290 | TWO WOOD MASK NETSUKE The second depicting a man playing kamifuki with the piece of red pigment inside, a large nose and and with his eyes glancing to BY THE RYUKEI SCHOOL paper he is strenuously trying to blow away inlaid in ivory. The the left. Himotoshi through the central bridge on the reverse. reverse with typical central bridge forming the himotoshi and inlaid HEIGHT 3.9 cm .⨯ Ryukei school, one signed Ryukei signature tablet reading RYUKEI Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century HEIGHT each 4.7 cm Condition: Very good condition, excellent patina. Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. no. 198 and 194. Condition: One with the signature tablet missing. Otherwise very good condition. Estimate EUR 600,- Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Starting price EUR 300,- The first depicting a man with one eye inlaid in ivory. Typical central bridge forming the himotoshi and missing signature tablet, though Estimate EUR 800,- later inscribed GYOKKEI ⨯. Starting price EUR 400,- 293 | A STAINED IVORY MASK NETSUKE OF EBISU Unsigned Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Published: Illustrated in Max Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 159. Carved from ivory finely stained in a caramel honey tone depicting the lucky god Ebisu. Himotoshi through the central bridge on the reverse. HEIGHT 3.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Netsuke Collection. Estimate EUR 600,- Starting price EUR 300,- 232 233 294 | KOGYOKU: A FINE WOOD 296 | A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF JO MASK NETSUKE OF A GRIMACING MAN Unsigned Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Signed Kogyoku Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: A. Katchen, Netsuke 7, vol. 2, pp. 346-347, no. K874. M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 23. Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 192. Finely stained and carved from ivory and depicting the old man Jo. Central bridge on the reverse forms the himotoshi. Expressively and finely carved as the mask of a grimacing man with furrowed brows and a focused expression. The reverse with central HEIGHT 4 cm bridge as himotoshi and possibly added signature KOGYOKU ᆘ. Condition: Excellent condition. HEIGHT 4.5 cm Provenance: Arlette Katchen and Peter E. Müller collections. Condition: Very good condition, beautiful patina. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Starting price EUR 750,- Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 295 | TWO POTTERY MASK NETSUKE One sealed Sekisen Japan, 20th century Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, HEIGHT 4.8 – 4.9 cm no. 1. and no. 186. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. The first of Hanahiki and sealed ‘Sekisen’ on the central bridge with himotoshi. The second of Chido and stamped ‘Made in Japan’ on Estimate EUR 400,- the central bridge with himotoshi at the back. Starting price EUR 200,- 297 | HOMIN: IVORY MASK NETSUKE OF OKINA By Homin, signed Homin with kao Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 24. Carved as the mask Okina from the Noh play with the same name. The long beard flows to the other side and forms the himotoshi. Signed HOMIN ɲẛ with typical kao. HEIGHT 3.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 234 235 298 | TESSAI: A RARE LACQUERED GIGAKU WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF GOJO By Kano Tessai (1845-1925), signed Tessai to with kao Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Japan, early 20th century Kano Tessai (1845–1925) came from a Gifu family and started Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, his life as a Buddhist priest, though his father instructed him in no. 10. the art of carving. He studied Chinese literature and drawing and was a professor at Tokyo art school in 1872. He was also on the examining committee for investigating the ancient art of Japan and An exact miniature portrait of the Gigaku mask of Gojo, also known subsequently went to Nara where he engaged in the reproductions as the lady of Wu, as she represents a court lady from the Wu of old objects of art, such as the present example. Gigaku was the kingdom (222-280). This mask was used in the play Konron. The traditional music theatre, performed in silent mime, of the Japanese mask also very much resembles the ‘fat ladies’ of the Tang dynasty. Court from the 7th to 10th centuries. Introduced in 612 from Korea, A central bridge forms the himotoshi on the underside, where also Gigaku reached great popularity in the Nara period (710-794). ᑚ to and kao is located. With original wood Gigaku is a combination of Togaku, derived from China during the۾ the signature TESSAI box, signed and sealed by the artist. Tang dynasty, Komagaku from Korea, and original Japanese music. Kano Tessai was heavily engaged in a revival of ancient Japanese HEIGHT 3.6 cm culture by emulating the patina and feeling of Gigaku masks in the form of his own miniature masterpieces. Condition: Excellent condition. The flaking of the lacquer is most likely on purpose, as Tessai was known to reproduce exact images Estimate EUR 1.500,- of historical masks. Starting price EUR 750,- 299 | HOJITSU: A FINE IVORY AND LACQUER MASK NETSUKE OF OKAME By Meikeisai Hojitsu, signed Hojitsu Japan, Edo/Tokyo, second half of 19th century Published: M. Rutherston, Japanese Masks, Peter E. Müller, 2017, no. 108. Exhibited: Minneapolis Institute of Art, Netsuke: The Japanese Art of Miniature Carving, 1998, no. 154. Finely carved as the Shinto goddess Okame, gleefully laughing with a high forehead and large round cheeks. Her mouth is lacquered red and her hair is lacquered in black with finely incised lines. The backside lacquered in gold with a central bridge in the shape of a ribbon forming the himotoshi and signed HOJITSU ʑǮ inside a rounded reserve. HEIGHT 3.9 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Peter E. Müller Mask Collection. Literature comparison: A similar netsuke by Hojitsu is in the Tokyo National Museum, illustrated in H. Arakawa, The Go Collection of Netsuke, pp. 76-77, no. 129. Estimate EUR 4.000,- Starting price EUR 2.000,- 236 237 300 | DEME UMAN: A RARE IVORY MASK 301 | A KUROGAKI WOOD NETSUKE NETSUKE OF A KITSUNE OF A SHISHI MASK By Deme Uman, signed Deme Uman Tenkaichi Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Expressively carved as the mask of a ferocious Kitsune (fox) with A kurogaki (black persimmon) wood netsuke of a Shishi mask with a movable jaw revealing rows of sharp teeth and traces of red an articulated jaw. The Shishi has finely carved bushy curls, floppy pigment inside the mouth. Signed DEME UMAN śϝޣ͝ (first ears, large inlaid eyes of black horn, a large reishi nose, and sharp under heaven) on the central bridge in the reverse, where the rows of teeth when its mouth is opened. Large himotoshi through himotoshi is located. The ivory is lightly stained and bears an the back of the head and the tongue on the inside, effectively attractive honey patina. keeping the jaw in place. LENGTH 3.8 cm HEIGHT 2.2 cm, LENGTH 3.8 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: British collection, old collection no. A222. Condition: The teeth exhibit some wear, Deme Uman was the grandson of Deme Juman, who is regarded and smaller nicks as the originator of mask netsuke. He is regarded as the most and scratches to the celebrated of mask netsuke makers and worked almost invariably underside. Generally, in in wood. The present netsuke is a very rare model from ivory and very good condition. certainly from the period, however unclear if by the master or a Provenance: British close hand. private collection. Auction comparison: For a similar netsuke in wood see Bonhams, Estimate EUR 600,- Fine Japanese and Korean Art, 11 September 2019, New York, lot Starting price EUR 300,- 946. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- 302 | RANTEI: A RARE WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF USOFUKI By Hogen Rantei, signed Rantei Japan, Kyoto, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A rather large wood mask netsuke depicting Usofuki with comically funnel-shaped pressed forward lips, a well-carved nose, and large double-inlaid eyes of pale and dark horn. The backside with himotoshi through the central bridge where also the signature RANTEI ࠌᎽ is located. Mask netsuke by Hogen Rantei are incredibly rare, Fuld’s Index lists only one mask of Okame in ivory. Most great masters are known to have made mask netsuke occasionally, and the present netsuke is a very rare example by the great Kyoto master Rantei. HEIGHT 5 cm Condition: Very good condition. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 800,- Starting price EUR 400,- 238 239 CONTEMPORARY NETSUKE 304 | MICHAEL WEBB: A VERY RARE BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A MOLE By Michael Webb (1934-2009), signed with initials ‘MJW’ England, Yorkshire, 1979/1980 Published: Eskenazi Ltd., Japanese Netsuke from Private Collections and Michael Webb Netsuke, London, 1980, p.28, no.67. A naturalistic model of a plump mole with its body curved slightly to the left in the act of digging. Its graphically large clawed-paws and snout are stained brown and its body is stained black with minutely carved fur. The tiny inlaid eyes make for a spectacular expression. Signature MJW in a polished reserve on the underside and natural himotoshi through the left hind and front leg. Moles are an incredibly rare subject in netsuke art. LENGTH 5.3 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Eskenazi Ltd, then collection of Robert S. Huthart. Michael Webb (1932-2009), formerly director and auctioneer at Sotheby’s, carved netsuke as a hobby until 1976. Afterwards he moved to Yorkshire and started mastering the art with the guidance of Luigi Bandini of Eskenazi Ltd. The present netsuke is a rare and early work of the artist, probably inspired by a mole in his garden, also shown by the superior and naturalistic presentation, particularly in the hairwork and bodily proportions of the animal. Auction comparison: For a comparable model by Masatoshi see Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2139. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 303 | GUY SHAW: A LARGE OKIMONO-TYPE NETSUKE OF GILT ANTS ON ROOT WOOD By Guy Shaw, signed with initials ‘GS’ England, late 20th century An okimono-type netsuke which shows the artist’s spectacular understanding of the beauty within nature. Knowing Guy Shaw, he probably found this piece of root wood as is, created and shaped by nature through countless years. The structure shows beautiful crackling and several cervices and irregularities – perfect for little ants to crawl about. So, he crafted seven perfectly gilt ants, in Jikan Ganbun manner, crawling around the rock-like structure, ideally shaped as a large netsuke. A collaboration between genius artistry and nature. Signed on the underside on a gilt tablet ‘GS’. HEIGHT 5.5 cm, LENGTH 9 cm Condition: Superb condition. Provenance: Swiss private collection. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 240 241 306 | DERKACHENKO: A BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A PUPPY WITH FEATHER By Alexander Derkachenko Ukraine, 2019 This work was inspired by an inro Alexander Derkachenko saw in the International Netsuke Society Journal depicting a cat with feather. The design is very much executed in the manner of the Ise-Yamada coiled rat netsuke and shows a coiled puppy with amusingly large inlaid eyes, holding a large feather in its mouth and lifting its right hindleg to scratch its ear. The feather is carved over the back of the puppy and cleverly merges with the fur. Large himotoshi next to the inlaid artist’s signature. HEIGHT 4 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 307 | AKIHIDE: A TALL WOOD NETSUKE OF BENKEI, KANJINCHO By Akihide, signed Akihide Japan, 20th century Carved from pale wood and depicting Benkei, wearing a tokin cap 305 | TANETOSHI: A CHARMING AND FINE inlaid in ebony wood. He is holding the Buddhist subscription list IVORY NETSUKE OF A DOG WITH PUP in front of him, pretending to read it, as he is looking to the left with an amusingly astonished expression. This scene is known as By Tanetoshi, signed Tanetoshi with artist seal kanjincho. His robe is ornately crafted, adorned with further ebony Japan, 20th century buttons, with many accentuated folds, and incised with floral and cloud patterns. Himotoshi through the back above the signature AKIHIDE džল. A masterfully animated group of finely crafted figures. The quality of this work is that of Kaigyokusai or Rantei. The dog is wearing HEIGHT 10.6 cm a collar, its anatomy is executed very precisely, the costal arch, fine fur, dark inlaid eyes. Its tail is coiled, the younger dog is lying Condition: Excellent condition. on its back between his front legs and is being held down by the Provenance: European collection. father. Both expressions are charming, naturalistic and masterfully executed. Underneath the signature TANETOSHI ⅍ with seal dž. Benkei is one of the great heroes of the 12th century and became The artist is the son of Meigyokusai, a Japanese contemporary artist famous for his adventures wrapped in legend. He became friends from the lineage of Gyokuzan. with another famous hero, Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and when the latter was pursued by his brother Yoritomo, Benkei saved him with HEIGHT 3.5 cm a genius bluff. They were stopped at a bridge by Yoritomo’s men and Benkei pretended to read from a Buddhist subscription list, Condition: Very good condition, beautiful patina. identifying themselves as money collectors for the temple of Nara, Provenance: Austrian private collection. effectively fooling the guards. This scene is depicted in this netsuke. Estimate EUR 2.500,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 1.250,- Starting price EUR 600,- 242 243 309 | GEORGES WEIL: AN IMPOSING STAINED WOOD NETSUKE OF A FEMALE GHOST By Georges Weil, signed Weil England, late 20th century Stained in deep red and carved as an imposing ghost, the features eerily crafted. The face is that of an old hag, with her hair trembling down her face. The ghost has large hands with bony fingers and her hair at the back, as well as her garment, is finely flowing – conveying this feeling of a frightening floating ghost very well. One foot is placed above the other, and the signature WEIL is found underneath. Asymmetrical himotoshi through the back. With the original cushioned jewelry box, inscribed on the lid in gold G. Weil. HEIGHT 13.3 cm Condition: One small crack on the head. Otherwise excellent The famous woodblock print depicting condition. the ghost of Okiku by Hokusai Provenance: European collection. Georges Weil was born in Vienna in 1938 and moved to England one year later. He became a famous jewelry designer and sculptor of precious metals and his works are highly collectible to this day. Weil started collecting netsuke in the 1960s and started carving netsuke in the 1970s. His works have been featured in many exhibitions throughout the world, and are in the collections of many museums, such as the British museum. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 308 | HIDEYUKI: A RARE AND EXCELLENT WOOD NETSUKE OF THE FEMALE GHOST OKIKU By Hideyuki, signed Hideyuki Japan, Tokyo, 20th century A large and powerfully carved wood netsuke depicting the female ghost Okiku emerging from and looming over a bucket, with finely carved long hair, large bony hands and a terrifying expression with large double inlaid eyes of pale and dark horn. The wood is finely stained and the small himotoshi are in the reverse. Artist’s signature HIDEYUKI লƥ on an inlaid gold tablet. With original tomobako (wood storage box) inscribed and sealed by the artist. HEIGTH 8.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Private Long Island Collection. This netsuke relates to the ghost story of the ‘Mansion of Plates’ (Sara-yashiki). The maid Okiku had accidently broken a set of Korean plates and as a consequence her infuriated master bound her and threw her down a well, where she died and returned to haunt the living. In 1795, wells around Japan became infested with a species of worm covered in thin threads, which people believed to be a reincarnation of Okiku; the threads being the remnants of the fabric used to bind her. They named it “Okiku mushi” (the Okiku bug). Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 244 245 311 | DERKACHENKO: A BOXWOOD AND TAGUA NUT NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TURTLE By Alexander Derkachenko Ukraine, 2019 This work is titled ‘Birth of the turtle’ and is the first tagua nut netsuke carved by Alexander Derkachenko. The tagua nut, beautifully shimmering and simulating ivory, is used for the eggshell, and the turtle is carved from boxwood with inlaid horn eyes. Himotoshi through the underside next to the inlaid artist’s signature. LENGTH 5.3 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 310 | MASATOSHI: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE 312 | DERKACHENKO: A BOXWOOD OF A DRAGON BAT NETSUKE OF TENGU NO TOMAGO By Tokisada Nakamura (Masatoshi) (1915-2001), signed Masatoshi By Alexander Derkachenko Japan, Tokyo, 20th century Ukraine, 2018 Wonderfully carved and lightly stained, depicting a mythical being Finely carved from stained boxwood and depicting a tengu resembling a dragon bat. The mythical animal has large flaring hatching from an egg. Finely carved details, such as the feather wings, terminating in fine curls, the upper wings touching its face. work, expression and crisply carved claw visible on the underside. The face is quite fantastical, with a long beak like a duck with rows Himotoshi in the back next to the inlaid artist’s signature. of teeth minutely carved inside. The creature has one horn and two ears, the pupils are inlaid in dark horn. Large himotoshi through the HEIGHT 3 cm .back and signature MASATOSHI ݔႵ Condition: Excellent condition. HEIGHT 5.1 cm Estimate EUR 1.200,- Condition: Excellent condition. Starting price EUR 600,- Provenance: European collection. Literature comparison: Perhaps the netsuke closest to this is the Bakemono bat, no. 324 in R. Bushell, The Art of the Netsuke Carver, where Masatoshi claims that the design was his own invention. Masatoshi, arguably the most talented contemporary carver, was known for his wild designs enabled by his genius and creativity. Estimate EUR 5.000,- Starting price EUR 2.500,- 246 247 INRO 313 | A FINE LACQUERED THREE-CASE SAYA 314 | A RARE AND ELEGANT THREE-CASE INRO WITH MATCHING MANJU NETSUKE LACQUER INRO INSPIRED BY BY UEMURA ENSHU KANO YASUNOBU (1796-1846) By Uemura Enshu, signed Enshu Inscribed Seisen’in Hoin with kao Japan, 20th century, Showa (1926-1989) or Heisei period (1989) Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The outer sheath beautifully decorated with coarse brown lacquer, A three-case inro lacquered in gold, silver and red takamaki-e simulating tree-bark, and lacquered with sprigs of leaves with depicting a chirping bird perched on a cherry blossom branch, kirikane flakes and shell highlights. The slender three-case inro on the reverse showing a carnelian branch, all set on a beautiful and the inside, is decorated with a stunning design of three owls on elegant wood ground with a fine grain. Dense nashiji covering the top of each other, their staring eyes inlaid in gold with shell details. risers and inside. Gold lacquered inscription on the inside of the lid They are surrounded by kirikane flakes and the reverse with an reading Seisen’In Hoin with red laquer kao – referring to a painting owl in flight amongst leaves, with vertically spread out wings, the from Kano Yasunobu, whose art name was Seisen and who inspired featherwork masterfully executed. Both sides made with hiramaki-e many inro makers and lacquerers throughout the 19th century. and togidashi-e and the underside with a chequered design and signed ENSHU ㋵Ή. The inside compartments with dense gold HEIGHT 7.8 cm nashiji. Condition: Miniscule losses to lacquer painting and very minor wear The manju netsuke consisting of two parts and depicting a squirrel, HEIGHT (inro) 7.2 cm, DIAMETER (manju) 4.2 cm along the edges. Very good condition. with a bushy tail and large glaring eyes, nibbling on orange and Provenance: German private collection. shell-inlaid fruits. The reverse with signature ENSHU ㋵Ή. Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: British private collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- The composition of the inro and matching netsuke is designed to Starting price EUR 600,- reflect the life in a tree – the owls are living inside the tree and the Estimate EUR 2.000,- squirrel is in the crown of the tree nibbling on fruits. Starting price EUR 1.000,- 315 | A LACQUERED FOUR-CASE INRO WITH IMPERIAL HORSE Unsigned Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A relatively large four-case inro decorated on one side with a horse lacquered in silver, red and gold takamaki-e, one hoof raised, and its head turned to the right, trying to break free, as it is tied to a tree on the other side. The horse is wearing an ornate saddle, decorated with gold takamaki-e with floral depictions and kikunogomon, the imperial seal of Japan used by the emperor and the imperial family. The matte lacquer of the horse is beautifully contrasting to the shimmering gold takamaki-e of the saddle, the gold takamaki-e trees and the sprinkled gold nashiji at the base of the inro. The ground is lacquered to simulate tortoiseshell. The inside with gold fundame. HEIGHT 9 cm, WIDTH 6.2 cm Condition: The ground of the side of the horse is possibly slightly re-painted. A little wear around the edges. The lacquer work generally in very good condition. Provenance: Austrian private collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 248 249 317 | A VERY FINE SHIBAYAMA AND LACQUER FOUR-CASE INRO DEPICTING URASHIMA TARO Unsigned Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) A finely inlaid four-case lacquer inro on a gold lacquered ground, with inlays of ivory, mother of pearl, coral, stained horn and tortoiseshell. Urashima Taro, depicted as an old man, is shown kneeling and looking at the opened box from which a turtle emerges. A crane descends above him. The reverse decorated with a leafy blossoming peony branch, one budding flower inlaid in coral, below three flying butterflies. The inside with dense nashiji. HEIGHT 8 cm, WIDTH 6.2 cm Condition: Some surfaces scratches, miniscule loss to the inlay of the mat underneath the box. Good condition. Provenance: British private collection. According to legend Urashima Taro saves 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 king Ryujin. 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… Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 316 | SHIBAYAMA AND KAJIKAWA: A FINE A superbly inlaid gold lacquer inro depicting a caparisoned elephant SHIBAYAMA INLAID GOLD LACQUER FOUR- on one side, and parading boys dressed in Korean garments on CASE INRO WITH CAPARISONED ELEPHANT the other side. The inro shows a festival scene – a reenactment of a procession of the Korean embassy through Japan to Edo (now By Kajikawa (lacquer) and Shibayama (inlay), signed Shibayama and Tokyo). The boys are lacquered in red, gold and silver takamaki-e Kajikawa with red pot seal with finely inlaid ivory faces, holding various instruments and a Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) banner, all set underneath pine trees and clouds. The elephant on the other side, next to the pine tree, is inlaid in ivory and has a fierce expression. His saddle is inlaid with stained ivory, lacquer, bronze, horn, tortoise shell and mother of pearl. The inside with dense nashiji. The underside with the signature KAJIKAWA 䫼ਊ with red pot seal, and further signature SHIBAYAMA ැͪ on an inlaid mother of pearl tablet. With an ivory shibayama ojime inlaid with mother of pearl, horn and coral and a square ivory manju netsuke showing various geometrical patterns in shishiabori (sunken relief). Inro HEIGHT 8.6 cm, manju netsuke HEIGHT 4.2 cm, ojime HEIGHT 1.5 cm Condition: Minor wear to the edges of the inro, some wear to the fundame ground, one tiny inlay to the saddle cloth has been lost – generally, in very good condition. Provenance: British private collection. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 250 251 319 | NORIYUKI: A RARE IRON AND MIXED METAL THREE-CASE INRO OF OMI HAKKEI By Hamano Noriyuki II (Kuzui II) (1771-1852), signed Kuzui Japan, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Marcus Huish, Japan and its Arts, 1889, p.9. J. F. Blacker, The ABC of Japanese Art, 1911 (reprinted 1929), p.139. Made from iron and inlaid in gold, silver, copper, shakudo and shibuichi. The top and base is shibuichi and the risers and interior are made from silver. Depicted is the Omi Hakkei (Eight views of Lake Biwa), which is inspired by the traditional Chinese motif of Chinese Xiaoxiang Bajing (The Eight Views of Xiao and Xiang), and show a series of views around the southern part of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake a few miles northeast of Kyoto. The views are: Evening Glow at Seta, Sunset Sky at Awazu, Autumn Moon at Ishiyama, Returning Sailboats at Yabase, Evening Bell at Miidera, Night Rain at Karasaki, Descending Geese at Katata, Lingering Snow on Mount Hira. Signed at the top on an inlaid gold tablet NORIYUKI ᆩΐ (Kuzui). HEIGHT 7.7 cm, WIDTH 4.8 cm Condition: Very good condition. The silver is slightly worn on the risers. Provenance: Edward Gilbertson collection. Axel Petersen collection, purchased at Sotheby’s, London, 1970. Wrangham collection, no. 1001. Estimate EUR 3.000,- Starting price EUR 1.500,- 318 | A FINE FOUR-CASE INLAID LACQUER INRO WITH A SCENE FROM A NOH PLAY Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A gold lacquered inro, decorated on one side with a scene from the play Okina, the dancer holding a fan and wearing a Hakushiki-jo mask finely inlaid in ivory. His dress is ornately decorated in gold and silver takamaki-e and togidashi-e. The reverse shows a Samurai watching the play next to an attendant who is holding a parasol above him. The details in takamaki-e, togidashi-e and inlays in ivory and horn. The inside with dense nashiji. HEIGHT 8.8 cm, WIDTH 5.7 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor scratching to lacquer ground and miniscule wear to riser edges. Provenance: French private collection with old label reading ‘Japon’ and ‘62’. Auction comparison: Compare to a very similar inro by Kogyokusai sold by Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art from the Edward Wrangham Collection (Online only), 9 July 2018, London, lot 112. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- 252 253 SAGEMONO 321 | SHIBAYAMA YASUNOBU: A FINE IVORY AND SHIBAYAMA KISERUZUTSU 320 | SHIBAYAMA YASUNOBU: A RARE FOUR-CASE By Shibayama Yasunobu, signed Shibayama Yasunobu IVORY SHIBAYAMA INLAID INRO Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) By Shibayama Yasunobu, signed Shibayama Yasunobu Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) The pipe case of muso-zutsu form and densely embellished on both sides with neatly incised inlays of gold, coral, horn, stained ivory, aventurine glass, mother-of-pearl and malachite, creating The four-case inro is carved from ivory and densely embellished on a magnificent scene with six sparrows in a peach tree. Signed either side with neatly incised inlays of coral, horn, stained ivory and SHIBAYAMA YASUNOBU ැͪ ͲƱ in a gold cartouche inlaid at the malachite in high relief, creating a vivid circumferential scene with backside. The top of the lower section ringed in gold with the cord five sparrows in a peach tree. Signed on an inlaid mother of pearl attachment. cartouche SHIBAYAMA YASUNOBU ැͪ ͲƱ. HEIGHT 23 cm HEIGHT 8.2 cm, WIDTH 5.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition with hardly any wear. Even after 150 Condition: Excellent condition with hardly any wear. Even after 150 years not a single inlay is missing! Two natural age cracks. Gilt and years not a single inlay is missing! Two natural age cracks to lowest incised metal mounting to the upper rim of the base section with case. an eyelet for suspension. Provenance: British private collection. Collected prior to 1980. Provenance: British private collection. Collected prior to 1980. Estimate EUR 2.000,- Estimate EUR 2.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- Starting price EUR 1.000,- 254 255 322 | A RARE WOOD AND SHIBAYAMA INLAID YATATE Unsigned Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) In the form of a yatate (portable writing set) carved from wood with an attractive grain. The composition consists of a long shaft for the 323 | TESSAI: A RARE BAMBOO brush and a carrying box, with inset metal, for the ink and cotton. SHUNGA KISERUZUTSU OF A The entire piece is decorated intricately with thirteen different MAN WITH MANY GOURDS 324 | A STAMPED LEATHER TOBACOO POUCH insects inlaid in Shibayama style with mother of pearl, horn, tortoise WITH GOLD KANAMONO OF SHISHI shell, coral and ivory. The insects include a large praying mantis, By Kano Tessai (1845 – 1925), signed Yuiga butterflies, ladybugs, moths, flies, dragonflies and various bugs. Dokuson Anshu Tessai and kao Unsigned Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Japan, Edo period (1615-1868) LENGTH 18.6 cm Condition: Amazingly in almost perfect condition – one miniscule Of muso-zutso form, carved in partly colored Made from imported European leather, stamped with floral motifs, the loss to the edge of one wing of the dragonfly on the hinged sunken relief, emanating a paintbrush, with a gold kanamono finely carved with a shishi and brocade ball. element. man cutting up a large gourd. The inscription Provenance: European collection. above the man, inside another stylized gourd, HEIGHT 11 cm loosely translates to “this is not a gourd”. The way Estimate EUR 1.200,- the man holds the large gourd is quite suggestive, Condition: Good, complete and used condition. Starting price EUR 600,- how amusing! The reverse shows further gourds Provenance: British collection. hanging from a string and a basket full of gourds, with three further lying outside. Signed Yuiga Estimate EUR 600,- -,ᑚ and kao (copied by Starting price EUR 300۾ Dokuson Anshu TESSAI Tessai from the master of the Yuiga Dokuson-an studio). HEIGHT 23.7 cm Condition: Good condition with one crack extending from the basket of gourds to the base, and minor expected discoloration around the area of the insert. Provenance: European collection. For more information on Kano Tessai, see lot number 298. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 256 257 OKIMONO 326 | MUNEHARU: AN AMUSING IVORY OKIMONO OF A KAPPA WITH CUCUMBER By Muneharu, signed Muneharu Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) A very well detailed and amusing okimono depicting a kappa pulling 325 | MEIDO: A RARE TONKOTSU WITH BAT HEIGHT tonkotsu 6.5 cm, HEIGHT kiseruzutsu 22.2 cm a huge cucumber, the favourite food of the kappa, with a rope. AND REISHI, WITH EN SUITE KISERUZUTSU The aquatic creature has its head tilted to the left with squinting Condition: Excellent condition. eyes, inlaid in dark horn, and is exclaiming as the large cucumber The Tonkotsu by Asahi Meido (1843-1923), signed Meido Provenance: British collection. is probably very heavy. The rope is carved very precisely and ties Japan, dated 1921 around the cucumber several times. The cucumber is also carved According to Ueda Reikichi, Asahi Meido (1843-1923) was an expert realistically with the spiny surface stippled and the characteristic Published: Max Rutherston Ltd., Kitsuengu from Jacques Carre and ivory carver and some of his work was selected by The Japanese ‘dots’ inlaid in horn. The kappa has long hair with a soft spot in others, 2018, London, no. 37. government for Columbus exhibition in America of 1983. the center, which is where it keeps its vital fluids. Amusingly, since kappa are ferocious but polite creatures, the best way to defeat a Estimate EUR 4.000,- kappa is by respectfully bowing, so that it shall return the favour The Tonkotsu carved from fruitwood in the shape of a bat, its wing Starting price EUR 2.000,- thus spilling out its vital fluids. The ivory bearing a very good colour carved on the side with the ends joining on the underside. The face with a light stain and the signature MUNEHARU ඐԛ is found in a of the bat is carved beautifully, the eyes inlaid in black horn, with rounded reserve under the cucumber. plenty of typically Japanese humor. The cord holes behind the bats head are ringed in green-stained ivory. The lid is finely carved from HEIGHT 5 cm, LENGTH 9.5 cm ivory with reishi fungus. The underside of the lid with inscription dated 1921 and signed MEIDO džࠧ. Condition: The okimono is in very good condition with no restorations, only the tip of the cucumber branch has a small chip. With a fine en suite kiseruzutsu of musozutsu form and carved Provenance: British private collection. from bamboo, though simulating wood – an incredible feat! The cord attachment is crisply carved with further reishi. The ivory ojime Estimate EUR 2.000,- with a faded signature and a figural depiction of Okame. Starting price EUR 1.000,- 258 259 327 | TOMOKAZU: A LARGE MUSEUM QUALITY IVORY OKIMONO OF AN EAGLE WITH TWO FOXES By Okada Tsunekichi (Tomokazu), signed Tomokazu Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) A dynamic and powerful scene of a large eagle grappling a fox between its talons, the wild beast letting out an agonizing scream, as the eagle looks determined to one side, with large inlaid eyes of mother of pearl. Another smaller fox is escaping, its body shape dynamically captured, as it scurries away, turning around to bite the eagle in its tail. The carving is incredibly detailed all around with masterfully carved plumage and fur. The talons and beak of the eagle are quite terrifying and carved with fabulous realism. The eyes of both foxes are inlaid in shimmering mother of pearl. The surface of the ivory has developed an appealing yellowish patina over time. Signed in typical style of the artist in high relief TOMOKAZU ƤĂ with seal. HEIGHT 11 cm, LENGTH ca. 17 cm Condition: Two paws of the smaller fox are reattached. Otherwise excellent condition. Provenance: British collection. Okada Tsunekichi, who used the art name Tomokazu, was a gifted carver of okimono who participated in and received several prizes at the carving competitions organised by the Tokyo Chokokai (The Tokyo Carver’s Association). Auction comparison: For a similar okimono attributed to Okada Tomokazu and of smaller size see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 9 November 2017, London, lot 167. Estimate EUR 8.000,- Starting price EUR 4.000,- 260 261 328 | SEICHOKU: A FINE IVORY OKIMONO 330 | AN EXCELLENT IVORY OKIMONO OF A FATHER AND SON WITH FROG OF AN ENTERTAINER PLAYING THE SAMISEN By Seichoku, signed Seichoku Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) Unsigned Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely carved as a man holding a long staff and a rosary bead, looking down at his son who is holding a minutely carved frog Sensitively crafted as a seated entertainer tuning his samisen, a up high. The boy is seated on a mat next to a tree trunk. The traditional Japanese three-string instrument. The man is wearing details, such as the facial features and hands are incredibly fine. a hat and an elaborately decorated kimono. His facial features are The underside shows the surface of the mat and the signature superbly carved. In front of him is a brocade tobacco pouch with SEICHOKU йˢ on an inlaid red lacquer tablet. With a fine, old an incised bird for the kanamono (pouch fitting). With a fine, old associated wood stand. associated wood stand. HEIGHT 7.8 cm HEIGHT 6.2 cm Condition: Amazingly, in MINT condition. Condition: Very good condition with a minor repair to the wrist of Provenance: British private collection. the left arm and to the top of the samisen. Provenance: British collection. Auction comparison: For a similar okimono by Seichoku see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 10 November 2011, London, lot 164. Estimate EUR 1.500,- Starting price EUR 750,- Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 329 | SEIKO: A FINE IVORY OKIMONO OF A RAT CATCHER WITH CAT By Seiko, signed Seiko Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely carved as a rat catcher with his box he uses to catch rats beside him. The rat has escaped onto his back, causing the man to shriek in surprise, his minutely carved hands are depicted in motion. The tiny rat is carved with good detail and a little whimsical cat, with a charming expression, is trying to reach it. The signature underneath the tray which holds the box on a red lacquer tablet SEIKO йЗ. With a fine, old associated wood stand. HEIGHT 8 cm Condition: Amazingly, in perfect condition. One tiny imperfection to the cat’s back. Provenance: British private collection. Estimate EUR 1.200,- Starting price EUR 600,- 262 263 331 | RYUKO: A LARGE AND SPECTACULAR TOKYO SCHOOL OKIMONO OF A SLEEPING BIJIN By Ryuko, signed Ryuko Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) A large and impressive okimono depicting a serenely sleeping bijin (beauty), her head rested on a basket. The girl has fallen asleep after a harvest and she is in a deep slumber. The artist has mastered both her exhaustion and beauty impeccably - a delicate balance of subtle nuances. Her wrist bends over the edge of the basket, her mouth is slightly opened, and her expression is sunken. Her facial features are crafted sensitively, showing her sublime beauty, and one wonders what she might be dreaming. The garment folds are carved incredibly well, almost coming to life. Her hair is incised precisely and tied up at the back. One striking detail is the sandals she is wearing, one of them gently coming off her extended foot. The shape of the okimono is elegant, further underlining her beauty. An exceptional masterpiece from the Tokyo school. The base with two floral mon and the signature in sosho .ᆘ RYUKO LENGTH 18.6 cm Condition: Excellent condition, expected minor age cracks. Provenance: British collection. Estimate EUR 5.000,- Starting price EUR 2.500,- 264 265 Numbers indicate lot numbers. This Index only Signature Index indicates the signatures – various attributions are written in the corresponding texts. AKIHIDE...... džল ...... 307 MITSUNAGA ...... ʾǣ ...... 114 ALEXANDER DERKACHENKO...... 306, 311, 312 MITSUSADA ...... ʾǭ ...... 224 No. 15 No. 20 No. 26 No. 29 No. 31 CHIKUSAI ...... ໜ ...... 194 MITSUSHIGE ...... ʾȶ ...... 102 CHOKUSEN ...... ˢͪ ...... 240 MITSUTADA ...... ʾฑ ...... 106 31...... ڿMIWA ...... Ɓ 300...... ͝ޣDEME UMAN ...... śϝ DORAKU ...... ƅǐ ...... 52 MOTOHARU ...... ʻԛ ...... 267 DOSHO ...... ƅȟ ...... 179 MUNEHARU ...... ඐԛ ...... 326 ENSHU...... ㋵Ή ...... 313 MUNEMITSU ...... ʾඐ ...... 138 GEKKO ...... ʃ ...... 107 MUNENARI ...... ඐŪ ...... 202 GEORGES WEIL ...... 309 MUNEYUKI ...... ඐƥ ...... 175 GUY SHAW ...... 303 NANBOKU ...... ϒ҂ ...... 146 GYOKKOSAI ...... 180 ʾ NORIYUKI ...... ᆩΐ ...... 319 47...... ڄGYOKURIN ...... OKATOMO ...... ᛂƤ ...... 144 ...... 229GYOKURYUSAI ...... OKATORI ...... ᛂ籃 ...... 20 No. 32 No. 33 No. 34 No. 35 No. 36 105...... HAKURYU ...... Ƀ OKURA ...... Ň ...... 42 HIDEHISA ...... ল΅ ...... 33 RAKUMIN ...... ǐΦ ...... 44, 60 HIDEKAZU...... লĂ ...... 141 RANTEI ...... ࠌᎽ ...... 302 HIDEMASA ...... লȢ ...... 135 RYOMIN...... ႂΦ ...... 36 HIDETOMO ...... লƤ ...... 260 RYOSAI ...... ݘ ...... 192 HIDEYUKI ...... লƥ ...... 308 RYUCHIN ...... 147 ܤ HOGEN ...... ʑᵄ ...... 176 290...... ⨯...... HOJITSU ...... ʑǮ ...... 299 RYUKEI HOKKA...... 286 RYUKI ...... Ӑ – ...... 172 ᆘ ...... 331...... HOMIN ...... ɲẛ ...... 51, 297 RYUKO ICHIYUSAI ...... ʹ ...... 63 RYUMIN ...... ӐΦ ...... 64, 268 ...... 264...... IKKAN ...... Ăᆇ ...... 108, 205 RYUSAI IKKO...... Ăʾ ...... 90, 225 SADAYOSHI ...... ǭύ ...... 93 No. 37 No. 39 No. 41 No. 42 No. 44 ƀ ...... 116ڽ...... ඐ ...... 257 SARI܉...... ISHIMUNE ISSAI ...... Ă ...... 139 SEICHOKU ...... йˢ ...... 328 ITTOKUSAI ...... Ă䉾 ...... 287 SEIKA ...... ੯Ļ ...... 183 JUGYOKU ...... ...... 85 SEIKO ...... йЗ ...... 329 KAGETOSHI ...... բϙ ...... 148, 182, 242, 280 SEIYODO BUNSHOJO ...... нїࠧNJˇƕ ...... 228 KAJIKAWA ...... 䫼ਊ ...... 316 SEKISEN...... ܉చ ...... 295 KINRYUSAI ...... ඁȸ ...... 41 SEKKO ...... ᆘ ...... 281 KOGYOKU...... ᆘ ...... 294 SHIBAYAMA ...... ැͪ ...... 316 KOHOSAI ...... ȓ ...... 75, 282 SHIBAYAMA YASUNOBU ...... ැͪͲƱ ...... 320, 321 KOJU ...... ʾ ...... 169, 210 SHIGEMASA ...... ȶȢ ...... 226 KOKEI ...... থ၇ ...... 125 SHIGEYOSHI ...... ȶ ...... 215 KOMIN ...... 241 ඁ ...... 217 No. 45 No. 47 No. 49 No. 50 No. 51؟...... ᆘΦ SHOKIN KYOKUSEI ...... ŀ ...... 198 SHOKO ...... ֿ֟ ...... 34, 216 KYUSAI...... ᬌᑚ ...... 272 SHOUNSAI ...... Ӹ ...... 173 MASAHIRO ...... ȢЗ ...... 39 SHUMIN ...... লẛ ...... 65 MASAKATSU ...... 92 SHUNGETSU ...... ԛʃ ...... 57 ۥȢ MASAKAZU ...... ȢĂ ...... 49, 61, 174 SHUSHO ...... ༔ ...... 186 MASAMITSU ...... Ȣʾ ...... 94, 95 SHUZAN ...... ̠ͪ ...... 62, 129 MASANAO...... Ȣˢ ...... 98, 109, 212 TADAKUNI ...... ฑř ...... 238 MASANOBU ...... ȢƱ ...... 128 223...... ץTADAYOSHI ...... ฑ MASASADA (MASAKAZU) ...... ຩᑰ ...... 184 TANETOSHI...... ⅍ ...... 305 MASATAMI ...... ȢΦ ...... 127 TEIJI ...... ᑰȕ ...... 83 MASATOMO ...... ȢƤ ...... 130 TENMIN ...... ĐΦ ...... 268 MASATOSHI ...... ݔႵ ...... 310 ᑚ ...... 298, 323۾...... TESSAI MASATOYO ...... ຩ牉 ...... 231 No. 52 No. 56 No. 57 No. 60 No. 61 MASATSUGU ...... Ȣơ ...... 131, 204 TOMOCHIKA...... Ƥʡ ...... 37, 178 MASAYOSHI ...... ؈ྪ ...... 32 TOMOKAZU ...... ƤĂ . . . . . 29, 35, 87, 165, 327 193 TOMOMASA ...... ƤȢ ...... 56...... MASAYOSHI ...... Ȣ٤ MASAYUKI ...... ȢDŽ ...... 26 TOMONOBU...... ƤƱ ...... 142 MASAYUKI ...... Ȣƥ ...... 50, 250 TOMOTADA ...... Ƥฑ ...... 124, 145, 149 MEIDO ...... džࠧ ...... 325 TOMOTAKA...... ƤƬ ...... 45 284...... ͪۆ...... MIBOKU ...... ಯ ...... 279 TSUYAMA MICHAEL WEBB ...... 304 YASUAKI ...... ̝dž ...... 197 MINKO...... ẛե ...... 126 YOSHI ...... ...... 201 MINSEI...... ΦȢ ...... 111 YOSHINAGA ...... к ...... 158 MITSUCHIKA ...... ʾʡ ...... 97 YOSHITOMO ...... Ƥ ...... 153 No. 62 No. 63 No. 64 No. 65 No. 75 No. 83 No. 85 No. 87 No. 90 No. 92 No. 141 No. 142 No. 144 No. 145 No. 146 No. 93 No. 94 No. 95 No. 97 No. 98 No. 147 No. 148 No. 149 No. 153 No. 158 No. 102 No. 105 No. 106 No. 107 No. 108 No. 165 No. 169 No. 172 No. 173 No. 174 No. 109 No. 111 No. 114 No. 116 No. 124 No. 175 No. 176 No. 178 No. 179 No. 180 No. 125 No. 126 No. 127 No. 128 No. 129 No. 182 No. 183 No. 184 No. 186 No. 192 No. 130 No. 131 No. 135 No. 138 No. 139 No. 193 No. 194 No. 197 No. 198 No. 201 No. 202 No. 204 No. 205 No. 210 No. 212 No. 281 No. 282 No. 284 No. 286 No. 287 No. 215 No. 216 No. 217 No. 223 No. 224 No. 290 No. 294 No. 295 No. 297 No. 298 No. 225 No. 226 No. 228 No. 229 No. 231 No. 299 No. 300 No. 302 No. 303 No. 304 No. 231 A No. 238 No. 240 No. 241 No. 242 No. 305 No. 306 No. 307 No. 308 No. 309 No. 250 No. 257 No. 260 No. 264 No. 267 No. 310 No. 311 No. 312 No. 313 No. 313 A No. 268 No. 268 A No. 272 No. 279 No. 280 No. 314 No. 316 No. 319 No. 320 No. 321 W THE BAND No. 323 No. 325 No. 326 No. 327 No. 328 No. 329 No. 331 IMPRINT Publisher Galerie Zacke founded 1968 © SZA Versteigerungen & Vertriebs GmbH 1070 Wien Mariahilferstraße 112, Stiege 1, 2. Stock Austria, Europe Tel (0043-1) 532 04 52 Email: [email protected] Editor Lukas Zacke Experts Lukas Zacke Assistance Marion Schor Photography Georg Bodenstein Design Hermann Kienesberger Printing Gröbner Druck, Oberwart Website www.zacke.at © GALERIE ZACKE Reproduction forbidden Lot 124 and 102 Lot 38, 66, 330 and 131 Lot 231 1070 VIENNAAUSTRIA .MARIAHILFERSTRASSE112 7HO)D[(PDLORɝFH#]DFNHDW www.zacke.at