129 - JAPAN - First half of the 19th century

JAPAN - First half of the 19th century Boxwood smoking set, consisting of a *tonkotsu* (tobacco box), a *kiseruzutsu* (pipe case), and a lacquered *ojime*. The *tonkotsu* is finely carved: on one side, it depicts a roaring tiger, and on the other, a dragon rising amid swirling clouds; the eyes are inlaid with dark horn. On one side, it bears the signature “Ryôsei saku” (亮聲作, “made by Ryôsei”), accompanied by a *kakihan* (personal mark). The lacquered *ojime* that completes the set is carved in the form of a double mask, depicting an *oni* (demon) on one side and *Okame* (a smiling female figure) on the other. The *kiseruzutsu*, of the *senryû-zutsu* type, is adorned with the figures of Ashinaga and Tenaga—two mythical companions symbolizing cooperation. Ashinaga, with his long legs, balances on Tenaga’s head while carrying a basket, while Tenaga reaches upward with his arms to grasp his companion’s garment. The signature “Ryôsei” appears on the lower part; the opening for the cord (*himotoshi*) is integrated into the basket. Dimensions: *Tonkotsu*: length 8.6 cm, width 3.5 cm, height 7.7 cm; *Kiseruzutsu*: length 20.7 cm, width 2.0 cm, depth 2.7 cm; *Ojime*: length 2.1 cm, width 1.9 cm, depth 1.8 cm.