Katalognummer: NE1119-212 MASANAO: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A TOAD Signed Masanao Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A compact and expressive netsuke of a warty toad, the surface treatment is masterfully executed, emulating the skin of its real-life counterpart. The toad has large bulging eyes, double inlaid in two types of horn, and a wide mouth, giving it an enigmatic smile. The belly and underside are smooth and show the four webbed feet, as well as the signature MASANAO 正直 in an oval reserve and the himotoshi, one central and another tucked away between the legs. HEGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor, age-related surface wear. Provenance: French private collection. A toad signed Masanao would usually be attributed to Masanao of Ise-Yamada, though the manner of the signature is more like that of Masanao of Kyoto. In any case, ivory netsuke of toads of this size and quality are exceptionally rare. Auction comparison: Compare to an ivory netsuke of a toad by Masakatsu sold by Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Private collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 71. Schätzpreis 估價: € 4.000 Startpreis 起拍價: € 2.000 -
Katalognummer: NE1119-212 MASANAO: A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A TOAD Signed Masanao Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A compact and expressive netsuke of a warty toad, the surface treatment is masterfully executed, emulating the skin of its real-life counterpart. The toad has large bulging eyes, double inlaid in two types of horn, and a wide mouth, giving it an enigmatic smile. The belly and underside are smooth and show the four webbed feet, as well as the signature MASANAO 正直 in an oval reserve and the himotoshi, one central and another tucked away between the legs. HEGHT 2.8 cm, LENGTH 5 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor, age-related surface wear. Provenance: French private collection. A toad signed Masanao would usually be attributed to Masanao of Ise-Yamada, though the manner of the signature is more like that of Masanao of Kyoto. In any case, ivory netsuke of toads of this size and quality are exceptionally rare. Auction comparison: Compare to an ivory netsuke of a toad by Masakatsu sold by Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Private collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 71. Schätzpreis 估價: € 4.000 Startpreis 起拍價: € 2.000 -
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.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
.jpg "Source: Christie's")
