Delicately
carved through the arms of an octopus, this unsigned netsuke depicts a fisherman’s
battle with his catch. The lightly stained ivory is attractively worn in a few
places, creating a noticeable contrast between the beautiful light brown and cream
colored ivory. Depth emerges from this contrast, and from the arms of the creature
entangling the fisherman; pockets of three dimensional space seen through the
curves of the animals arms meeting the arch of the fisherman’s back. Minute details,
like the inlayed black coral eyes of the octopus, the expertly carved suction
cups that cover the body of the octopus, and the oddly tranquil face of the fisherman’s
struggle make for an interesting and thought provoking piece. In excellent condition.
