This
19th century ivory okimono is the Lucky God Jurojin, one of the Seven Gods of
Luck. He is holding a staff, wearing the robes of a scholar, a Shinto style head-dress,
and accompanied by a deer. An exceptionally well carved representation of the
incarnation of the Star God of Longevity. who is widely worshipped in Japan for
his role in administering the span of life on earth, and the patron of scholarly
success.
This
relatively early ivory legendary deity is carved with finer lines than that of
most early 19th century okimono. It is scrimshawed with meticulous details, combined
with an exceptionally virile composition, lively carved in a naturalistic pose.
The features are sharply observed, with the tight flow of lines artfully sweeping
in force. The ivory is stained in cream gold, with few small defects except the
meticulously restored flower atop of the staff; the okimono remains superb carving
which could hardly be improved upon.
