Page 199 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

183 | MASAYOSHI: AN IVORY
OKIMONO OF A MONK
CATCHING A LOBSTER
By Masayoshi, signed Seppo-do Masayoshi
Japan, second half of 19th century

The emaciated monk standing on his toes with one foot, wearing a
long flowing half-shouldered robe with finely incised patterns, and
holding a fishing net in one hand and holding up a lobster in the
other. His agonized expression, with a wide-open mouth indicating
a scream, suggests he was just pinched by the poor animal fighting
for its life. Signed seppo-do MASAYOSHI to (carved) on the inside of
the robe by the monk’s legs.

HEIGHT 13 cm
Condition: Excellent condition with only minor traces of wear. Fine
honey patina.
Provenance: British collection.

Estimate EUR 1,500
Starting price EUR 750

184 | MEISHUNSAI: AN IVORY OKIMONO
OF A YAMABUSHI AND BOYS
By Meishunsai, signed Meishunsai with kakihan
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

The yamabushi, possibly the popular Benkei, is carrying an oi-bako
on his back, wearing the characteristic hat as well as a robe and
armor, and has a stern look on his face, clearly caused by the pesky
children running and playing around him. One of his hands is raised
high as if he is about to strike one of the gleefully smiling boys, with
one looking straight up to him with a taunting gesture (known as
bekanko) of pulling down one of his eyelids. The figures come to
life in this dynamic okimono group with fine incision work, great
attention to detail, and beautiful, well-preserved staining. Signed
MEISHUNSAI to one of the yamabushi’s soles, with a kakihan on the
other.
HEIGHT 6.5 cm
Condition: Good condition with minor wear, the cane in the
yamabushi’s hand has been replaced with a metal cane and one
child’s hand and the sword’s hilt have been professionally restored.
Provenance: British private collection, purchased at Bonhams,
Fine Japanese Art, 12 May 2011, London, lot 220 (part lot, sold for
3,360 GBP). Old collector number to the underside of one boy’s
garment.
Estimate EUR 1,000
Starting price EUR 500

193