250 - Ɏ AN EXQUISITE WALRUS TUSK RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A SQUIRREL AMONG GRAPEVINES

Ɏ AN EXQUISITE WALRUS TUSK RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A SQUIRREL AMONG GRAPEVINES Unsigned Japan, Tokyo, Asakusa District, c. 1860s-1880s Of circular form, finely carved in openwork to depict a lively squirrel clambering among luxuriant grapevines, its head raised toward a heavy cluster of fruit and its bushy tail sweeping upward in a bold curve. The plump grapes are framed by overlapping leaves, each finely incised with naturalistic veins, while slender tendrils twist dynamically through the composition. The reverse is similarly worked with densely entwined stems and broad foliage. Natural himotoshi. The walrus tusk was clearly selected for its particularly attractive luster, with deeply polished, ivory-like areas to the front contrasting beautifully with the natural marbling visible along the edges. LENGTH 4.3 cm Condition: Excellent condition. The motif of squirrel and grapes is a highly auspicious subject signifying an abundance in fortune and offspring and was introduced in China during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1126). The subject is only infrequently depicted in netsuke art and was likely made during a time when most netsuke were inspired by Chinese carvings and subjects during the first half of the 18 th century. 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.