Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An unusual walrus tusk ivory netsuke depicting a tall standing sarumawashi (monkey trainer) leaning on his long taming stick with a finial in the form of a blooming peach. The mischievous monkey, dressed in a sleeveless shirt, sits by his feet and reaches up trying to grab the peach. The monkey trainer laughs at this futile attempt, holding the peach firmly. The reverse with a small himotoshi.
HEIGHT 10 cm
Condition: The left leg of the sarumawashi and monkey are restored. Several age cracks and a fine glossy patina. Provenance: Ex collection Mrs. Gunvor Bjorkman.