By Kokei, wood netsukeJapan, Kuwana, Ise province, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Kokei is assumed to be have been a pupil of Minko, however became independent and was a prolific worker, his work showing even affinities to the Nagoya school or Masanao from Ise-Yamada, compare for example the treatment of the fur in our next catalog no. 103. It is easy to see why he became independent, as he possessed considerable carving ability and managed to portray a sense of superior naturalism in his work, without losing any individuality. His goats are probably his most recognizable work, as any connoisseur of netsuke art, if the quality is right (as in the present piece), will immediately identify it as Kokei. The fur is carved masterfully, creating a three-dimensional effect, as are the horns, the swinging tail and the characteristic chin beard. Turning the netsuke reveals the legs and hooves, which have a delightful dark patina, and are as the rest of the piece carved crisply. Natural himotoshi and the signature located in a polished reserve KOKEI.HEIGHT 2.9 CM, LENGTH 4.5 CMCondition: Excellent condition, beautiful patinaProvenance: British private collection with two valuations from Sotheby's, by Neil K. Davey, dated 1974 & 1984, inventory no. 163Auction comparison: For a similar goat by Kokei see Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, London, 8 November 2011, lot 143.