There
is a superb display of detail in this minute 19th century ivory netsuke. The delicately
rendered ivory skillfully brings to life this beloved deity, Fukurokuju the god
of longevity, wisdom and good fortune. He firmly holds a knobbed staff in his
right hand and in his left side is embraced by a sweet karako who holds the minogame,
a long-life turtle who is often seen as a companion of immortals. Looking closer
at Fukurokujo, we see the God of Longevity with silk-soft beard flowing down,
lips slightly open and all tooth distinct, in an aged but wise expression. The
immortal's robes are supple and flowing with detailed intricate edging on the
hem. The minogame shell is beautifully ridged and the child is beatific in his
upward gaze. There are two double depth asymmetrical himotoshi carved into the
back of the netsuke. The signature is boldly engraved by the artist Eisai. The
ivory netsuke aged beautifully in golden cream. It has an old chip to the right
foot but otherwise is in good condition.
