174 - A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN

A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF RAIJIN Unsigned Japan, Nagoya, c. 1830-1840, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely carved as Raijin, the thunder god, crouching dynamically upon swirling clouds, his muscular body leaning forward as he grasps the wind issuing from his sack. His fierce expression is vividly rendered, with bulging eyes inlaid in translucent horn, furrowed brows, and a gaping mouth revealing sharp teeth, framed by his characteristic wind-swept hair and beard. A large drum is strapped to his back, its head boldly decorated with a tomoe emblem. Natural himotoshi. HEIGHT 3.5 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Minor expected wear. Raijin, the Japanese god of thunder, lightning, and storms, is one of the most recognizable deities in Japanese mythology. He is typically portrayed as a fearsome, demon-like figure beating a circle of drums to create thunder. Storm deities acquired particular historical resonance through the attempted Mongol invasions of Japan in 1274 and 1281, when powerful storms helped destroy the invading fleets. These storms came to be celebrated as kamikaze, or ‘divine winds’, sent to protect Japan. Literature comparison: Compare a related Nagoya school wood netsuke of Raiden, by Masakazu, 3.5 cm long, illustrated in Sotheby’s, Netsuke from the Collection of Raymond and Frances Bushell, 18 November 1999, lot 8.