A WOOD NETSUKE OF A CICADA ON A HALF NUTSHELLUnsigned, wood netsukeJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Cicadas (semi) as netsuke have a specific meaning, as they were worn during the festival of Obon, honoring the ancestor spirits, as they generally symbolize resurrection in East Asia. This netsuke shows a meticulously carved semi on an empty nutshell, particularly delicate work is seen on the wings and the ribbing of the body. Himotoshi on the interior of the nutshell below the bridge.HEIGHT 2.7 CM, LENGTH 4.5 CMCondition: Very good conditionProvenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman