Page 124 - Fine Japanese Art September 25, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Sagemono

249 | A MASSIVE ShUZAN
STYLE SAIShIKI NETSUKE
OF A ChINESE LADY
WITh BASKET
Unsigned
Japan, Osaka, late 18th to early 19th century,
Edo period (1615-1868)

Carved from hinoki (cypress) wood and
painted in largely worn polychrome pigments
and gesso, depicting a Chinese lady with
delicate facial features and with her hair tied
in an elegant topknot. Her back is slightly
arched, and she carries a basket. Very large,
generously excavated himotoshi through
the back.
HEIGHT 18.5 cm (!)
Condition: The polychrome pigments and
gesso are heavily worn, flaking in some
areas, and could use some stabilization.
Provenance: British collection.
Estimate EUR 3.000,-
Starting price EUr 1.500,-

248 | A LARGE AND VERY RARE
ShUZAN STYLE SAIShI NETSUKE
OF A COILED DRAGON WITh TAMA
Unsigned
Japan, Osaka, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

A large saishiki (painted) boxwood netsuke depicting a sinuously
coiled dragon grasping a tama in one claw. The surface is treated
with polychrome pigments of brown, green and red, and with gesso
highlights. The dragon has long flowing whiskers, flames emanating
from its body and finely carved scales. The head is carved
expressively, and the eyes are inlaid in shimmering mother-of-pearl,
with inset dark pupils which follow the viewer when the netsuke is
turned (!). Several possibilities for natural himotoshi.
LENGTH 7.4 cm
Condition: Very good condition with expected surface wear to the
polychrome pigments and gesso.
Provenance: German private collection.
Estimate EUR 5.000,-
Starting price EUr 2.500,-

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