Antique Horn Inlaid Ivory Netsuke
Two Cicadas
On Fallen Leaf
Netsuke Signature: Signed, early 19th Century
H 2in.(5cm.), W 1in.(2.5cm.), D 0.5in.(1cm.)
Condition: cracks, no break, fair

This fanciful carving shows attention to the overlooked or insignificant subject that is one of the hallmarks of netsuke tradition. Here two cicadas explore a fallen leaf. The heads and bodies of the insects are burnished while their wings are inscribed with cross hatching to roughen the material. It is difficult to convey the care used in making this piece; held in the hand it reveals a translucence and delights us with the affectionate realism of a master carver. The outside of the leaf with stem and veins is clearly articulated, and the insects themselves have great character. With beady eyes made of black coral inlay, and little smiles, they remind one of two men in a boat. This piece has a crack which is a limited fracture and not a break, but which is exaggerated by the absorption of stain into the fissure when the work was completed. We have no translation for the signature, though this is obviously a work of particular skill.

Private Collection