DESCRIPTION: An unusual and fine late Edo Period ivory manju-type netsuke of four polychrome masks surrounding a central, raised himetoshi (a hole for threading the cord). Each mask is quite detailed and expressive with much of the original color remaining. The netsuke is signed “Sadamitsu (Joko)” on the reverse and dates from the early to mid 19th C. DIMENSIONS: Approximately 2 ½” in diameter (6.5 cm).

DESCRIPTION: A fine Japanese ivory netsuke, dating from the 18th to early 19th century, of a fierce looking foreigner dressed in full armor and holding a staff in his right hand. This netsuke has an absolutely luscious, buttery patina with smooth wear, and is in very good condition with no chips. DIMENSIONS: 2 3/8” tall (6 cm).

DESCRIPTION: A Japanese staghorn netsuke in the form of the beloved Gamma Sennin (Liu Hai in Chinese lore) carrying a large frog on his back and holding his staff in his left hand. With happy expression, bare feet and round pot belly, he wears a cloak of incised mugwort leaves as he wanders about with his magical frog. Dating from the late 18th to early 19th centuries, there are traces of red lacquer on both the frog’s and sage’s faces, and one chip to the frog’s hindquarters. A lovely netsu... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: A fine Japanese ivory netsuke dating from the Edo Period (late 18th to early 19th C.) depicting Hotei, the Japanese god of prosperity and happiness. Tradition identifies Hotei with the eccentric Chinese Zen priest Pu-tai. Here he is depicted with his rotund belly (symbolizing his benevolent nature), laughing merrily and balancing on his head a large bag filled with riches. The himotoshi are found tucked within the folds of his sleeve on the back, and show consistent wear for the... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: This rare and fantastic antique Japanese Tonkotsu, or tobacco box, has been crafted from wood in the form of the three “no evil” monkeys, with a beautifully carved “Speak no Evil” monkey serving as the main tobacco container. “See No Evil” forms the ojime and “Hear No Evil” forms the netsuke to complete the set. Each of these has been meticulously carved with inlaid eyes and finely delineated fur. The large monkey wears a decorative jacket and sports the artist’s signature on his... Click for details

DESCRIPTION: An unusual netsuke featuring an abalone shell crafted from wavy burl wood with an ivory lobster perched on top. The lobster’s curled antennas are made of metal, and on the underside of the shell a signature is etched into the wood. Early 20th century in very good condition. DIMENSIONS: 1 ¾” long (4.5 cm).