Page 39 - Fine Japanese Art September 25, 2020 Galerie Zacke Netsuke and Sagemono

69 | A LARGE IVORY NETSUKE
OF A BAYING KIRIN
Unsigned
Japan, in Kyoto style, probably 20th century

The fantastic mythical creature is baying with its neck extended
and head raised, the large eye-pupils inlaid in dark horn. Its four
hooves are placed firmly on the ground, its belly and neck are
finely incised with reptile-like scales. Its powerfully sculpted body is
covered with muscular tissue, like that of a shishi, and it has a long
curling mane and a bushy tail which extends all the way up to its
neck. Finely carved flames emanate from the kirin’s sides and the
defining attribute is of course its finely polished and curved horn.
Large himotoshi through the reverse. A superbly carved copy from
the 20th century, possibly even by the celebrated artist Tokisada
Nakamura, best known under his artist name Masatoshi.
The kirin, derived from the Chinese mythical beast qilin, is one of
the four divine creatures, the others being the dragon, phoenix,
and turtle.
HEIGHT 11.3 cm
Condition: Excellent condition with simulated, inked age cracks.
provenance: Formerly in an old Italian private collection, Milan,
acquired c. 30 years ago from Eskenazi Ltd. (by repute).

AUCTION COMpARISON
Another late kirin in the style
of the 18th century was sold
by Zacke, Fine Japanese and
Netsuke Art, 22 June 2019,
Vienna, lot 273 (sold for
52.560 EUR).

Estimate EUR 20.000,-
Starting price EUr 10.000,-

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