Ɏ A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A FOX PRIEST (HAKUZOSU)

Ɏ A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A FOX PRIEST (HAKUZOSU) Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Beautifully worn, standing enveloped in a long robe, a large cowl draped over its head, the face with a sly expression, hunched over a bamboo staff. Two large and functional himotoshi to the back, the larger hole generously excavated to accommodate the knot. The ivory bearing a superb, honey-yellow patina. HEIGHT 6.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor typical wear and natural age cracks. Hakuzosu is the name of a popular kitsune character who shapeshifted into a priest in the Kyogen play Tsurigitsune. Kitsune are creatures imbued with magical powers and are known to have the ability to shapeshift. They are also believed to be animated by the devils. This item contains ivory, rhinoceros horn, tortoise shell, and/or some types of tropical wood and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Therefore, after this item has the necessary trade certificate, it can only be shipped within the EU or picked up in our gallery in person.