AN EXCELLENT KAGAMIBUTA NETSUKE OF A NIO GUARDIAN BY KIKUGAWA MASAMITSUBy Masamitsu, kagamibuta netsuke, wood, metals, goldJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)An artfully and semi-sculpturally executed Nio, one of the two "Benevolent Kings", the gigantic, muscular guardians of the Buddha standing at the entrance of the temples. This Nio shows a grim fierce expression and has a markedly athletic appearance. He is holding a kongo (vajra) in one hand. The figure in copper, the loincloth in shakudo and gold and the eyes inlaid in gold as well. Flowing celestial scarves. The background is chased. Signed MASAMITSU on a small plate, for the artist from the Kikugawa family- a famous family of metalwork artists.DIAMETER 5 CMCondition: The bowl with minor surface scratches and a small crack, otherwise excellent conditionProvenance: The 40-Year Collection of a London Gentleman