Page 81 - Fine Japanese Art March 27, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Okimono

76 | MASANAO: A LARGE AND FINE
WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED RAT
By Masanao, signed Masanao
Japan, Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

A rather large 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 fur of the rat is precisely incised, and it is holding one
paw to its face, one is holding its tail which extends all the way to
the back and another is scratching its ear. The bony fingers of the
paws are carved with great detail, giving an eerie appearance. The
large beady eyes are inlaid in black horn. Natural himotoshi through
one of the legs and signed at the back in a polished reserve
MASANAO 正直.
HEIGHT 4.5 cm

Condition: Excellent condition.
Provenance: British collection.
Auction comparison: For another rat by Masanao of a similar size
see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, London, 17 May 2018, lot 116.
Estimate EUR 3.000,-
Starting price EUR 1.500,-

75 | MASANAO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE
OF A RECUMBENT BOAR
By Masanao, signed Masanao
Japan, Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

The boar (inoshishi) is looking upwards, its tusk inlaid in ivory and Condition: Very good condition – one pupil is replaced.
the eyes double inlaid in mother of pearl with horn pupils. Two legs Provenance: British collection.
are supporting it while the other two are tucked in underneath
its body. The fur is finely incised, the wood is of a very good color Auction comparison: Compare to another boar by the artist sold by
and has developed an appealing natural patina. The underside Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke
shows the crisply carved hooves, the himotoshi and the signature Part III, 6 November 2018, London, lot 101.
MASANAO 正直 on the haunch.
Estimate EUR 4.000,-
LENGTH 4 cm Starting price EUR 2.000,-

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