AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A TENGU WITH MOKUGYO BY CHIKUSAI
Ivory netsukeJapanlate 19th century, early Meiji period (1868-1912)This well carved netsuke, which is quite fragile, is an allusion to the ‘Tengu’s sin against Buddhism’. The Karasu Tengu is walking on a living mokugyo, with a grotesque face, sharp fangs and wings, whilst holding a stick with bells on it. A structure resembling shide, used for Shinto rituals, can be found on his back. The ivory is stained and of good colour. Signature on the underside of the mokugyo CHIKUSAI. Natural himotoshi and inlaid eyes.HEIGHT 4 CMCondition: A tiny part of the front of one foot and part of one hand has been reattached. The edge of one wing with a small chip. Part of the structure on top of his head has been reattached, and part of the stick which holds this is missing. Otherwise in good condition.Provenance: Collection of Sam Felton with CITES permit no. 18US59513C/9