Fukurokuju
is one the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, a group of deities original adopted from
China into Japan around the 15th century. The distinguish feature of Fukurokuju
is an elongated cranium, possibly an indication of the vast wisdom he accumulated
over his long life. He is often seen accompanied with a turtle, a crane or a deer.
Nanryu,
the maker of this netsuke was a skilled carving. This fine carving of Fukurokuju
has a considerably dynamic pose. The carving is bold yet fine, his up lifting
face and forwarding right foot evoke a sense of motion and expressiveness.