Page 68 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

55 | A FINE GOTO-SCHOOL GOLD-INLAID SHAKUDO
KOZUKA WITH TIGERS AND BAMBOO

Signed with a kakihan and inscribed koko
Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Of tate-maru-gata (oval) form with one hitsu, carved partly in
openwork depicting two tigers, presumably a mother and her
young, in a bamboo grove, all on a fine nanako ground. The larger
tiger is peeking out from a hole in the tsuba (or a clearing in the
forest), with most of its body, showing finely incised fur patterns,
on the reverse. The tigers and bamboo are worked in takazogan
with gold and copper. The inscription koko means “tiger and shine”.
Signed with the artist’s kakihan.
SIZE 6.7 x 6.2 cm
WEIGHT 102.1 g
Condition: Good condition with traces of wear, minor dents and
scratches, and one hairline on the edge near the larger tiger.
Provenance: French private collection.
The motif take no tora (tiger in bamboo) is a symbol for strength
and resilience, embodying the spirit of the samurai warrior. The
tiger has a strong nature, is flexible and resilient like the bamboo,
but it is also said that the strong tiger is looking for shelter
underneath the bamboo, as any earthly power is inferior to the
forces of nature. Moreover, the tiger and bamboo represent the
power of faith in Buddhism.
Estimate EUR 3,000
Starting price EUR 1,500

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