Page 114 - Fine Japanese Art Auction November 2 2019 Galerie Zacke

125 | KOKEI: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A GOAT 126 | MINKO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A GOAT
By Kokei, signed Kokei By Tanaka Minko (1735-1816), signed Minko with kakihan
Japan, Kuwana, Ise province, early 19th century, Edo period Japan, Tsu, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
(1615-1868)
A fine wood netsuke of a recumbent goat, its legs drawn in for
A fine and naturalistic wood netsuke of a goat from the famous compactness, with its head raised and slightly turned to the left.
artist Kokei with finely carved fur and horns creating a three- The goat has a charming expression with a gentle smile and eyes
dimensional effect. The goat has a characteristic chin beard and a inlaid in brass, typical for the artist. The hairwork is masterful
long swinging tail. The underside shows its legs tucked under the and shows an uneven surface which naturalistically resembles
body, with exquisitely carved hooves. Natural himotoshi through the shaggy fur of the goat. The surface is worn from centuries
the legs and the signature located in a polished reserve KOKEI থ၇ of handling, giving the netsuke a unique appeal, both tactile and
on the underside. visually. The underside shows the male genitalia and crisply carved
hooves. Signature MINKO ẛե and kakihan in a rounded reserve
HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 4.2 cm on one of the haunches. Natural himotoshi.
Condition: Signs of age and wear with some nicks to the wood with HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 4.7 cm
a larger imperfection to one cheek – otherwise good, complete
condition. Condition: The wood is beautifully worn, showing a fine patina.
Provenance: British private collection. Excellent condition.
Provenance: Josette and Theo Schulmann collection. Acquired
Kokei is assumed to have been a pupil of Minko, however became ca. 1970. Josette and Théo Schulmann were passionate dealers
independent and was a prolific worker, his work showing even of Asian Art and have donated several important works to the
affinities to the Nagoya school or Masanao from Ise-Yamada. Cernuschi Museum.
It is easy to see why he became independent, as he possessed
considerable carving ability and managed to portray a sense of Tanaka Minko (1735-1816) was the founder of the important Tsu
superior naturalism in his work, without losing any individuality. His school and one of the few names mentioned in the Soken Kisho
goats are probably his most recognizable work. from 1781.

Estimate EUR 3.000,- Auction comparison: Another Minko goat from the same collection
Starting price EUR 1.500,- was sold at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of
Fine Netsuke Part II, 10 May 2017, London, lot 93.
Estimate EUR 3.000,-
Starting price EUR 1.500,-

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