149 - TOYOMASA: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A TIGER

TOYOMASA: A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A TIGER By Naito Toyomasa (1773-1856), signed Toyomasa 豊昌 Superbly and boldly carved as a powerful tiger seated in a compact yet remarkably sculptural pose, its massive shoulders and haunches compressed into a weighty, almost monumental form. The large head is lowered and turned slightly to one side, animated by a wonderfully fierce expression: the bulging eyes are inlaid in translucent horn beneath deeply furrowed brows, while the broad muzzle, flaring nostrils, curling lips, and prominently modeled nose lend the face exceptional character and vitality. The powerful forelegs are firmly planted before the body, the large paws individually articulated, while the muscular hindquarters swell beneath the tightly curled tail. The coat is worked throughout with bold, rhythmically incised fur and stripes, accentuating the powerful contours of the body. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath within an oval reserve TOYOMASA. HEIGHT 5.4 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear. One inlaid eye possibly replaced. Literature comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of a similarly posed tiger, signed Hidari Toyomasa and attributed to Toyoyo, the son of Naito Toyomasa, illustrated in Alain Ducros, Netsuke et Sagemono, 1987, no. 159. Auction comparison: Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a tiger by Naito Toyomasa, signed Toyomasa, dated early 19th century, 4.5 cm high, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 6 November 2012, London, lot 104 (sold for GBP 103,250 or approx. EUR 180,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing).