Page 122 - Fine Japanese Art March 27, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Okimono

119 | A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF
AN ONI ATOP A CLOUD WITH SHRINE
Unsigned
Japan, Edo, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Published: Atchley, Virginia / Davey, Neil (2006) The Virginia Atchley
Collection of Japanese Miniature Arts, p. 210, no. IN25 (part of an
inro).

A powerfully sculpted wood netsuke depicting an oni fleeing atop
a cloud, holding a pagoda-shaped shrine in his hands, presumably
stolen from Bishamon Ten (one of the seven lucky gods derived
from the Hindu deity Kubera). The muscular oni has a grim
expression, long finely carved hair and is wearing a tiger-skin
loincloth. His feet are enveloped in the densely carved cloud, which
is depicted in movement. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi, appearing
like a flaming screaming head, on the underside. The wood of a very
good color with a stunning patina.
HEIGHT 4.5 cm

Condition: Very good condition with a stunning patina. One minor,
old chip to the cloud (visible in the catalog illustration).
Provenance: Ex Virginia Atchley Collection.
Estimate EUR 3.000,-
Starting price EUR 1.500,-

120 | GESSHO: A RARE EARLY WOOD
NETSUKE OF A HATCHING TENGU

By Gessho, signed Gessho
Japan, Edo, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

A powerful, perfectly rounded composition of a hatching tengu
lifting itself from the cracked eggshell, his head turned upwards
letting out a powerful screech. The clawed hands are crisply carved
and show a vivid sense of movement in the composition. The
hairwork is worn, as is the entire surface which shows a pleasing
and smooth patina from generations of handling. The himotoshi
are generous, well-hollowed out and asymmetrical – indicative of
the period. Signed GESSHO 月生.
HEIGHT 5 cm

Condition: Good, worn condition. Stunning patina. Small nicks,
surface scratches, minor wear to the inside of the beak – all as
expected for a piece of this age.
Provenance: French private collection.
Gessho, also known as Gessei, was a member of the Shugetsu
school. The subject is unusual; however, the execution, patina and
signature are coherent with his authenticated works.
Estimate EUR 1.500,-
Starting price EUR 750,-

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