Japan. Edo period. 19th c. Bowl ivory, disc Shibuichi with details in gold and silver. In Takabori with some gold an Oni, on a Kanab? (war club) over his shoulder the giant bell of Miidera, carrying on the back and front each a paper lantern as counter weight. This depiction represents the saying "Chochin ni tsurigane" (Lantern against bell), an allusion to the unlike pair, that can only bring bad luck. ? 4.8cm. Condition A/B.
Provenance: -Collection Karl M. Schwarz, ill. Netsuke Subjects Addendum, 2001, no. A 30.
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.