Japan. Edo period. Mid-19th c. Ivory with finely carved and engraved darkened details, the eyes inlaid mother-of-pearl. Beautiful golden-yellow patina. One demon-like distorted Ky?gen mask with frown look and wide inflated nasal wings. Caricature of O-Beshimi, a figure that is powerful on the outside but shy on the inside. Height 3.8cm. Signed: Meikeisai Ho & Kakihan (Tama-form) of Homin, cf. MCI p. 187-188, T?ky?, active 1840-60. Condition A.
Provenance: -Collection Karl M. Schwarz, ill. Netsuke Subjects Addendum, 2001, no. A 185.
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.