263 - A FINE GOLD LACQUER NETSUKE OF A MINOGAME

A FINE GOLD LACQUER NETSUKE OF A MINOGAME Unsigned Japan, late 19 th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Finely carved in two parts and gold lacquered as a minogame resting upon an irregular low base, the mythical turtle shown with its head extended forward and four stout legs firmly planted, while the long trailing seaweed tail sweeps elegantly behind. The domed carapace is finely incised with overlapping hexagonal scutes, contrasting with the darker lacquered body and base. The animal is sensitively modeled with a gently projecting snout and alert eyes, while the tail is rendered in flowing, striated strands. The turtle attached to the base by wooden pegs fitted to the legs. The underside with a single himotoshi. LENGTH 4.1 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor wear, light scratches to base. The minogame is a mythical turtle, often depicted with the head of a dragon. It is said to live for over a thousand years, with a long, hairy tail made of seaweed and algae that have grown on its shell due to its old age, symbolizing longevity and wisdom. The perhaps most famous minogame appears in the legend of Urashima Taro, in which the hero rescues a sea turtle from tormenting children and is rewarded with a journey to Ryugu-jo, the palace of the Dragon King, under the sea.