A STAG ANTLER KISERUZUTSU DEPICTING KAPPA
Unsigned
Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
The pipecase of senryu-zutsu type carved in the form of an elongated ape-like kappa, holding one hand as if he was picking fleas, and the other hand near his crotch. His expression is curious, looking downwards with a piercing gaze. Perhaps a humorous and hidden meaning is that the pipe would go through his head, where the kappa keeps his vital fluids – though he does not seem to mind. Animal hair is used for the hair on the kappa’s head and the natural structure of the antler is used replicate the scaly skin on the creature’s arm.
HEIGHT 19.4 cm
Condition: Good condition, losses to animal hair.
Provenance: European private collection.
Auction comparison: Compare to an obi-hasami of a kappa sold at Van Ham, Asiatische Kunst, Cologne, 14 June 2018, lot 2297.