A CHARMING WOOD NETSUKE OF A BOAR BY TOMOSADABy Tomosada, wood netsukeJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The boar, or inoshishi, is the twelfth sign of the Japanese zodiac, is considered the bravest of the animals and also symbolizes daredevilry. It is also called yamakujira, or "mountain whale". The fur is neatly incised and accentuated with dark coloration. Himotoshi on the underside and between them the signature TOMOSADA.LENGTH 5 CMCondition: The wood bearing a fine patina, good and original conditionProvenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman