| Vintage
Japanese Netsuke
Issun
Boshi
Plying
Flute on Clog
Signed: Gyokusho, Circa: 20th Century
H
1.75 in.(4.5cm), W .75 in.(2cm), D 1.25 in.(3cm)
Condition: Very Good A
well carved netsuke in cream colored ivory, marked with layers and cross hatching,
engraved with hairlines and embroideries in sumi and brown pigment, polished to
a high hand finish. Natural himotoshi formed by the thongs of the geta. The subject
is Issun Boshi, a miniature character like Tom Thumb who traveled to the capital
in a rice bowl, rowing with a chopstick, to seek employment when he was fifteen.
He became a favorite at court for his fine manners and flute playing and proved
himself a hero when he rescued the princess from a pair of ogres. With one blow
of a magic hammer he was transformed into a full-grown, handsome warrior. Naturally
he married the princess and they lived happily ever after.
Private Collection |  |
