Page 23 - Fine Japanese Art March 27, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Okimono

15 | A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A 16 | A VERY RARE IVORY NETSUKE
STANDING AMA WITH AWABI OF A FISHERMAN
Unsigned Unsigned
Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
(1615-1868)

A rarely seen counterpart to the diving girl (Ama), as
Finely carved as a an Ama (diving girl) holding a large seen in no. 15. The diver is standing bare-chested
awabi in one hand and a sickle in the other as she and wearing a straw skirt, one foot is raised granting
looks to her right, her face with sensitively crafted, movement to the composition, and holding a tai
worn, features. She wears a straw skirt which very (seabream) in his left arm, the other grabbing his skirt.
much resembles her finely incised and inked hair. The diver has a smooth bald head, with semi-long hair
Her hair falls gently down her back, and parts in the flowing down his back and shoulders. He is looking
front revealing her sensually sculpted breasts. Good, upwards to the left with an amusing expression. Good
angular himotoshi through the back. himotoshi in the back.
HEIGHT 6.7 cm HEIGHT 7.5 cm
Condition: Good condition with age cracks and minor Condition: Good, worn condition with age cracks.
wear. Minor chip to one foot.
Provenance: German private collection. Provenance: Old Zagreb private collection.

Auction comparison: Compare to a related netsuke Estimate EUR 1.500,-
sold at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, Starting price EUR 750,-
2 November 2019, Vienna, lot 207.
Estimate EUR 1.500,-
Starting price EUR 750,-

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