DESCRIPTION: A charming ivory carving of three pumpkin-shaped imps having a tug-of-war over a pumpkin blossom. Two imps hold tightly onto a rope while tugging against each other; a smaller imp holds a fan in his left hand while bracing another imp with his right. This carving has so much excellent detail such as the holes in the blossom, two whisks, wonderful facial expressions and a detailed carved bottom with signature. No losses, no repairs and dating to the 19th C. Meiji Period. DIMENSI... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: A fierce, carved ivory mythical beast with the head and tail of a Shi Shi, six horns (four growing from his back), and nine double inlaid “eyes of the Buddha.” This Japanese okimono is artist signed on the beast’s back leg. In Buddhism, nine eyes symbolize the nine vehicles of the Buddha's teachings. The third eye on the forehead is a symbol of enlightenment or knowledge. Dating from the early 20th C., and in excellent condition. DIMENSIONS: 2 1/8” wide (5.4 cm) x 1 ½” high (3.8 ... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: A well carved Japanese ivory sculpture (or okimono) depicting a fisherman who finds a large shell on the beach. To his surprise, a startled monkey emerges from the shell rather than a mollusk! The carving is of high-quality, illustrated by the fisherman’s movement, detailed straw hat and decorated robe, held together with a sash from which a tobacco pouch hangs. Meiji Period, 1868 – 1912 and artist signed on the base of the shell. Good condition with minor superficial age fissures... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: A fine, small Japanese ivory okimono of a crouching shi shi (Buddhist lion) balanced on a leafy ball with teeth bared. Inside the leafy outer structure of the ball is a separate loose ball that rolls freely inside. Although unsigned, this piece was surely carved by a master as evidenced by the composition, loose ball, and the fine detailing of the shi shi’s fur and backbone structure. Dating from the 19th C., the okimono has a luscious patina from years of handling and is in exce... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: An appealing Japanese ivory netsuke of a seated oni with one leg extended and holding an open book inscribed with tiny readable characters. Nicely carved with horns, fur and hairy britches, this comical little demon dates from the Meiji Period (1868 – 1912), and can sit like an okimono for display. Very good condition with no chips or repairs. DIMENSIONS: 2 ½” long (6.4 cm) x 1 ¼” high (3.2 cm).

DESCRIPTION: A carved and signed ivory okimono of the demon queller, Shoki, with two small oni crouched at his feet. The bearded Shoki stands clutching his spear in full armor with elaborate flowing robes and sword suspended from his belt. At his feet are two oni, kneeling in submission. The base is signed by the artist, Minsei. Early 19th C. (late Edo Period); good condition, minor age fissures. DIMENSIONS: 2 3/8” high (6 cm) X 1 ¾” wide (4.5 cm) ... Click for details