272 - UNSEI: AN IMPRESSIVELY LARGE AND RARE BAMBOO NETSUKE OF JAPANESE BABYLON SEA SNAIL (BAIGAI)

UNSEI: AN IMPRESSIVELY LARGE AND RARE BAMBOO NETSUKE OF JAPANESE BABYLON SEA SNAIL (BAIGAI) By Unsei, signed Unsei 雲生 koku 刻 Japan, late 18 th-early 19 th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from a choice section of bamboo as a large baigai emerging from its massive spiral shell, its soft body extending beneath the broad lip, the charming head raised with two long feelers. The smoothly polished whorls contrast with the densely stippled body and finely textured shell opening, while the carver skillfully exploits the grain and natural tonal variation of the bamboo. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath UNSEI koku, [carved by Unsei]. HEIGHT 6 cm Condition: Good condition with natural age cracks, the largest filled; one antenna with an old repair. The baigai, or Japanese Babylon sea snail (Babylonia japonica), is an exceptionally rare netsuke subject. The present carving is particularly effective in its contrast between the massive, geometrically spiraled shell and the soft, animated body emerging from within, its raised feelers lending the creature an appealing sense of curiosity. The unusual subject is recorded in a related 18th-century wood netsuke by Masanao of Kyoto, recently sold at Bonhams (see auction comparison). Bamboo, although abundant and inexpensive, was highly valued by netsuke carvers for the extraordinary variety of its natural growth and grain. As Raymond Bushell observed, carvers often selected unusual sections or abnormal growths, with the quality of the finished netsuke resting entirely on the skill and artistry of its maker. Auction comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke of a bagai, by Masanao, dated second half of the 18 th century, 5.1 long, at Bonhams, Netsuke from the Collection of Joseph and Elena Kurstin, 25 March 2026, New York, lot 810 (sold for USD 117,340 or approx. EUR 102,000 converted at the time of writing).