Japan. Edo period. 19th c. Walrus tooth with finely carved, engraved, and dark accentuated details. Beautiful, golden-yellow patina. One pilgrim measuring the scope of the column with his arms in amazement. This can be found in the Todaiji in Nara, climbing through the square opening is supposed to bring luck. Height 4.8cm. Signed: Mitsumasa, cf. MCI p. 547. Condition A.
Provenance: -Collection Karl M. Schwarz, ill. Netsuke Subjects, 1992, no. 293.
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.