Antique Japanese Ivory Okimono
Shoki
Catching Two Oni
Unsigned. Edo, 18th-19th Century
H. 7in.(17.5cm.), W. 2 in.(5cm.), D. 1.5 in.(4cm.)
Condition: Very good

Shoki the Ghost Eater, also known as the Judge of Hell. Whose Chinese name is Zongkai. He is a Buddhist deity commonly worshipped as a demon queller in China and Japan, traditionally shown in an aggressive pose slaying demons with drawn sword. However, given the characteristic Japanese love of laughter, Shoki is often represented in okimono and netsuke as a comical hero. As depicted here, the calmly Shoki is catching a sharp witted oni atop of his hat, and another oni is dropping to his knee. This is a small yet complex masterpiece. The carving is both intricate, virile but with a light hearted approach. Based on the style of carving, and the faded polychrome scrimshaw work, though unsigned; the okimono can be attributed to the late 18th to early 19th century Edo period. The ivory (walrus?) has a beautiful aged cream patina. Except for an age crack running through the back of the okimono, there are no chips or other damages.

Private Collection