Page 59 - Fine Japanese Art March 27, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Okimono

51 | TOMOTADA: A GOOD IVORY NETSUKE
OF A RECUMBENT COW WITH CALF

Signed Tomotada
Japan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

An excellent rendition of the classic Tomotada cow model. The cow
has an expressed spine, bulky proportions and masterfully incised
fur, worn in all the right places. The rope halter which passes
through the nose is minutely carved and forms an s-shape over the
body, terminating by its side and ending in a loop. The expression
is sensitive, enhanced by inlaid pupils of lustrous black horn. The
calf nestles up to her and gently licks the side of her face. The
underside shows a beautiful yellowish patina and the finely carved
hooves tucked underneath their bodies. Asymmetrical, deep
himotoshi next to the signature TOMOTADA 友忠 in a rectangular
reserve.

LENGTH 6.1 cm
Condition: Excellent condition, expected age cracks and wear.
Provenance: French private collection.
The work, certainly in the upper percentile of Tomotada cows, also
shows some affinities to the work of Risuke Garaku, active in Osaka,
though certainly influenced by Kyoto artists.
Estimate EUR 5.000,-
Starting price EUR 2.500,-

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