Netsuke
by Shounsai in wood and ivory are equally prized; his artistry was recognized
in both materials; he is famous for small figures with expressive faces and slender,
well proportioned limbs, and figural subjects comprise the whole of his known
output. He occasionally stained his pieces, and signed them neatly without reserve.
This outstanding carving is in beautiful condition, especially considering
its age, and has only a little wear from handling; there are no chips or cracks.
The material is from the tip of a fine Asian tusk , closely grained with a cream
surface, finely polished on every small plane and curve and slightly translucent
on the bottom where the grain is more pronounced. Carving of Kaneko’s humble head
and face are typical of Shounsai Joryu. With _expression unperturbed, Kaneko grasps
her robe to avoid having her clothing disarranged due to the minor annoyance of
an unexpected movement, as she leans forward to set her clog on the horse’s trailing
rope. The small carving is replete with wonderful details, and formally well-balanced.
The horse’s mane is freely carved and seems to flow in the wind, its eyes are
punctuated with black pupils and its teeth are individually carved. The horse
wears a saddle blanket tied in two soft bows and bearing a crest. In some versions
of Kaneko’s tale the animal is a sacred horse belonging to a nearby monastery.
Surrounding the horse and figure are a small engraved water pail, a larger bucket
with laundry spilling over and a paddle. Laundry spills from the basket under
Kaneko’s arm. The curving forms and repeating diagonals lend the piece a suppleness
and a graceful sense of movement. The work is flawless and full of character,
and exemplifies the essential qualities of the art of netsuke.
