276 - GUY SHAW: A SNAIL AND ANTS BENEATH A FUNGUS

GUY SHAW: A SNAIL AND ANTS BENEATH A FUNGUS By Guy Shaw (1951-2003), signed GS England, c. 1990s Masterfully carved from mammoth ivory, retaining characteristic greenish mineral inclusions and finely stained throughout, depicting a large snail slowly ascending a gnarled, hollowed branch beneath an enormous decaying fungus. The snail’s tightly coiled shell is worked with exceptionally delicate concentric growth lines, contrasting with the finely wrinkled texture of its body and the smooth, pale tentacles extended inquisitively across the branch. Minute ants traverse and congregate beneath the fungus, lending the composition a remarkable sense of movement and scale. Above, the broad fungal cap is carved in intricate openwork, its irregular, perforated surface suggesting advanced decay and richly stained in tones of cream, pale green, and brown to evoke lichen, weathering, and organic growth. The combination of meticulous naturalism, complex openwork, and subtly varied surface textures is characteristic of Shaw’s finest work. Natural himotoshi and signed GS. HEIGHT 4.9 cm Condition: Excellent condition. A few filled age cracks, likely original to manufacture. Guy Shaw (1951-2003) was one of the foremost British netsuke carvers of the late 20th century. He studied at Bournemouth College of Art and was introduced to netsuke through the collection of his landlord, Francis Dinley. Deeply inspired by the natural world, Shaw developed an intensely observational style in which insects, fungi, shells, decaying wood, and other seemingly humble subjects were transformed into highly sophisticated miniature sculptures. His finest works combine extraordinary technical virtuosity with an almost microscopic sensitivity to texture, growth, and organic decay. Shaw famously likened his own working life to that of the ants: “Like the ants I work almost every single moment, often over 18 hours a day.” The comparison is particularly apt in the present work, where the tiny insects become both protagonists within the composition and an evocative reflection of the artist’s own obsessive dedication to his craft. Auction comparison: Compare a related composition of ants and mushrooms by Guy Shaw at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 8 May 2026, Vienna, lot 361 (sold for EUR 19,500).