HOGEN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A YAWNING OKAME
Signed Hogen
Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Exquisitely carved as Okame, also known as Otafuku, kneeling bare-chested with her supple, delicately carved breasts shown. She is yawning and stretching her arms up high – in the manner of Daruma during his nine-year meditation – therefore this depiction is also referred to as Onna Daruma (“Woman Daruma”), which is also slang for a courtesan. Her features are delicate and sensitive. Himotoshi through the back and signature HOGEN, which is an honorary title.
HEIGHT 4.6 cm
Condition: Excellent patina. Minor surface wear, notably on the right foot. Very good condition.
Provenance: British private collection.