A WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF A KITSUNE (FOX) Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The mask netsuke finely carved as a kitsune (fox) with a long and opened snout, large, pointed ears, and sly eyes surmounted by furrowed brow. The well-toned wood bearing a fine patina and the back with a central himotoshi bar. HEIGHT 4.5 cm Condition: Good condition. Some light nibbling to edges and a tiny nick to one brow. Provenance: Italian private collection, acquired from Pierre-Eric Becker, Cannes, on 2 April 1996.

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