A FINE AND RARE VEGETABLE IVORY NETSUKE OF THREE CHESTNUTS BY RYOSHU
Corozo nut/vegetable ivory netsukeJapan20th centuryThe chestnut is a symbol of success and is a traditional New Year’s gift and food. Buddhists believe that the souls of the deceased can settle in the kuri. The central chestnut is large while the ones on the side are small, finely carved structures, small framed himotoshi on the underside, signed RYO-SHU. The material has been stained and finished for further effect.This carving is by Shozo Miyazawa, who is mentioned in Contemporary netsuke by Miriam Kinsey and is said to be a perfectionist. His works are included in the collection of Prince Takamado, in the national museum of Tokyo.WIDTH 5 CMCondition: Excellent conditionProvenance: British private collection