Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
A cleverly crafted netsuke, carved from a walnut, depicting a skull with large cavernous eye sockets, the inside of the walnut ingeniously used to reflect the natural cavity of the skull. The teeth as well are carved by using the natural terminus of the nut. Fine patina. Natural himotoshi.
LENGTH 3.2 cm
Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Private collection, Dover, USA.
Auction comparison: A similar netsuke was sold by Lempertz, Netsuke, Inro und Sagemono, 7 June 2019, Cologne, lot 410 (sold for 1.860 EUR).