Page 81 - Fine Japanese Art Auction November 2 2019 Galerie Zacke

92 | MASAKATSU: A FINE WOOD
NETSUKE OF A COILED RAT
%\ 0DVDNDWVX VLJQHG 0DVDNDWVX
Japan, Yamada, Ise province, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

A fine wood netsuke of rat tightly coiled up into a ball. A genius
design when considering the functionality as a netsuke, but also
the uniqueness of the depiction. This model is believed to originate
from the Masanao family of Ise-Yamada and was executed in
different variations and sizes across members of the school/
family. The present netsuke is by Masakatsu, and shows particular
individuality, evident in the carving of the face and eerily bony paws.
The fur of the rat is precisely incised, and it is holding one paw to
its face, another is holding its very well carved tail which extends
all the way to the back and another is scratching its ear. The eyes
are inlaid in lustrous black horn. Natural himotoshi through one
of the legs and signed at the base of the tail in a polished reserve
MASAKATSU Ȣۥ.

HEIGHT 3.7 cm
Condition: Very good condition. Miniscule wear.
Provenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman.
Estimate EUR 3.000,-
Starting price EUR 1.500,-

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