A RARE SO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A PRIESTESS WITH ONI NEMBUTSUUnsigned, attributed to So-school, wood netsukeJapan, Tokyo, late 19th to early 20th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)A fine wood netsuke with rich Buddhist symbolism- a temple bell lying on the ground, the suspension with oppositely arranged dragon heads like on a mokugyo. An oni, fully dressed in a monk's attire, sits beside the bell, holding a paper lantern and a mallet with a drum suspended around his neck. He has accepted the Buddhist teachings. A priestess with a large hat stands behind the demon, the garment folds are finely executed, and she is holding a large scepter draped over her shoulder. Finely and precisely executed details, the oni's eyes white and inlaid. Natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 4.4 CMCondition: Excellent conditionProvenance: British private collectionAuction comparison: For an oni nembutsu in similar style by Ouchi Sosui see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, London, 8 November 2018, lot 13.