A LACQUERED NETSUKE OF A DRUMMER WITH A LION MASK BY YASUMASA
Ivory and lacquer netsukeJapan1st half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A boy seated on the ground wearing a lion mask, as is used for the traditional Chinese lion dance, known as shishimai. The lion mask is crafted very expressively, its mouth gaping as if roaring, with a long mane on the back. The boy’s arms and legs are bare, and he is clutching the drum on the ground with his feet. The top and underside of the drum are gilt, as are the lion eyes and other details such as the garment decorations. When peeking inside the mask, one can make out the face inlaid in ivory with fine details of the facial expression. Himotoshi as well as signature YASU-MASA on the underside. A rare artist.HEIGHT 2.7 CMCondition: Good condition with expected wear to lacquer; the drumstick has been lostProvenance: French private collection