248 - Ɏ OZAKI KOKUSAI: A MASTERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A CLUSTER OF REISHI FUNGI

Ɏ OZAKI KOKUSAI: A MASTERFUL IVORY NETSUKE OF A CLUSTER OF REISHI FUNGI Ozaki Kokusai (1835-1892), sealed Koku 谷 Japan, Shiba, Tokyo, c. 1860s-1880s Masterfully carved as a cluster of reishi fungi issuing from a thick, naturally curving stem, dominated by a large spreading cap arching dramatically over the composition, with two smaller fungi emerging from one side. Kokusai has skillfully embraced the inherent character of the ivory, incorporating its natural irregularities, age cracks, and subtle surface variations into the design. The weathered appearance of the fungi is enhanced through a masterful combination of fine stippling, irregular pitting, and dark staining, creating the impression of naturally aged and decaying growth. Such effects are characteristic of Kokusai’s celebrated treatment of antler, his preferred medium, making their realization in ivory all the more remarkable. Himotoshi to the stem and sealed KOKU within a square reserve underneath. HEIGHT 5 cm Provenance: Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 6 November 2012, London, lot 112. French private collection, acquired from the above. Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear and natural age cracks. Literature comparison: Compare a related antler netsuke of reishi with ants by the same artist, sealed Koku, 3.3 cm long, illustrated in Sydney Moss Ltd. (2016) Kokusai The Genius: and Stag-antler Carving in Japan, Part 2, pp. 40-41, no. 84. Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number FR2607505239-K). 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.