FIVE WOOD NETSUKE
The second signed Gyokko, the fourth signed Masanao and the fifth signed Ryugyoku
Japan, 19th century
The first depicting a blind stone lifter, his one open eye and two teeth are inlaid in ivory, the inlaid Gyokkei signature is missing, the second depicting Hanasaka-jiji with a basket of ashes sitting on his resurrected tree stump, ivory inlaid signature GYOKKO, the third a farmer sleeping, the fourth a blind masseur working his skills on a seated client’s shoulders, signed MASANAO, and the fifth a Nio on a giant sandal, signed RYUGYOKU.
HEIGHT 2.5 – 4 cm
Condition: The first missing the inlaid signature and with minor chips to feet, the second with a hardly noticeable chip and worn patina, the third with a crack, scratches and tiny chips, the fourth with a small chip and the fifth in good condition.
Provenance: British collection.