Ivory. Rectangular, rounded. In very delicately carved, engraved and darkly accentuated, partly perforated relief, all 12 animals of the zodiac (j?nishi) harmoniously arranged, although the tiger and dragon are fiercely snarling at each other, each of their eyes inlaid with black horn. W.2.8cm, H.1.5cm. Signed: Ryuchin & Kakihan, on a long curved cartouche, according to MCI T?ky? School, depicting this piece on p. 662. Condition A.
Provenance: -Collection Bluth, old collection label no. 353, depicted in MCI p. 662 -Collection Allhusen, acquired 1931.
Please note that objects made of ivory, rhinoceros horn and turtle shell, due to Cites regulations can only be sold within the European Community. At present the export in third countries is prohibited.