Page 38 - Fine Japanese Art September 25, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Sagemono

68 | TOMOTADA: A GOOD IVORY
NETSUKE OF A TIGER
By a follower of Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠
Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Powerfully crafted as a seated tiger (tora) scratching his chin
with its right hind paw. The tiger looks upwards with a satisfied
expression, the pupils are inlaid in dark-reddish buffalo
horn, and the thick eyebrows are very typical for the work of
Tomotada. The tiger stripes and hairwork is largely worn, but
where still present show fine incision work. The ivory of a fine
yellowish color with spots of amber patina, particularly by the
tail which curls around the tiger’s side. Very good himotoshi
to the underside and signed within a rectangular reserve
TOMOTADA.
LENGTH 4.1 cm
Condition: The left foreleg is restored. Otherwise good, worn
condition with a stunning patina and few, fine age cracks.
Provenance: French private collection.
Estimate EUR 5.000,-
Starting price EUr 2.500,-

67 | AN EXCELLENT KYOTO SChOOL IVORY
NETSUKE OF A GROOMING YOUNG TIGER
Unsigned
Japan, Kyoto, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

published: Bandini, rosemary (2018) Japanese Netsuke and Works
of Art, no. 7.

A visibly satisfied young tiger sitting with its left front paw
outstretched as it leans to lick its fur. The eyes, with inlaid dark horn
pupils, are cast downwards as it concentrates on its task. The ivory
netsuke is powerfully sculpted bearing all the hallmarks of a good
Kyoto school netsuke – bushy eyebrows, pronounced shoulder
bones and spine, and a thick tail which curls up over the tiger’s
back. Good, deep himotoshi through one paw and the belly.
HEIGHT 3 cm, LENGTH 4.3 cm
Condition: Very good and complete condition. Age-appropriate
wear, particularly to the backside and few age cracks.
Provenance: British collection.
Estimate EUR 5.000,-
Starting price EUr 2.500,-

72 73