DESCRIPTION: A very fine antique ivory manju netsuke, exquisitely carved in the form of a peony over rockworks in raised relief. The delicate petals are so realistically carved you can almost see the flower open and unfold. Around the perimeter is a raised edge suggesting two halves that are joined, but actually the netsuke is solid ivory with two himotoshi on the reverse. Also on the reverse is the artist’s signature, Mitsumasa", along with additional markings. Excellent condition (no crac... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: Delightful ivory netsuke depicting two playful puppies with inlaid eyes, one on his back as the other tussles with him. Meiji Period (1868 – 1912) and signed Gyokuzan on the base. Excellent condition. DIMENSIONS: 1 ½” high (4 cm) x 1 ¾” wide (4.5 cm).

DESCRIPTION: An excellent dark shibuichi kozuka, dating from 1710 – 1730, with extremely fine katakiri engraving (incised engraving like brushstrokes). Shown is the Japanese waka poet and aristocrat, Narihira (825 – 880 A.D.), who is said to be the hero of “The Tales of Ise”. He has been traditionally regarded as the epitome of the “beau homme” in the Japanese culture and is believed to be one of the men who inspired the hero of the “Tale of Genji”. Here he stops to admire blooming kerria as... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: A rare and extremely old pair of menuki in hand worked detail on a yamagane base (unrefined copper) featuring a hyotan vine with blossoms and gourds, including inlaid dewdrops and mercury-gilt detail highlighting the gourds. Unsigned, Ko-Mino School, 1320 – 1370, and of very good quality. DIMENSIONS: Each approximately 1 5/8” long (4 cm).

DESCRIPTION: An appealing little Japanese okimono of two bumpy toads, the carver having used the natural branching of the stag antler to differentiate them. One toad kneels upright, while the other sticks out his tongue. Very pleasing and nicely carved. Good condition with no losses or cracks; most likely Taisho Period, 1912 – 1926. DIMENSIONS: 3” high x 3” wide (7.5 cm).

DESCRIPTION: A pair of menuki in a hanaguruma motif (meaning “flower wheel” or “flower cart”), with hand worked detail on a shakudo base with gold highlights. Seen in the carts are blossoming cherry branches, a symbol of the samurai. Unsigned, but in Mino style, c. 1580 – 1630. Very good work with only minor wear. DIMENSIONS: Each 1 5/8 wide (4 cm).