Antique
Narwhal Netsuke Shojo
Wearing Sake Cup for Hat Netsuke
Signature: Kosan, mid 19th century
Recorded in: Netsuke, A Comprehensive Study Based on the M.T. Hindson
Collection by Neil K. Davey, #1290. The Netsuke Handbook by Ueda Reikichi,
#561 The Signature Book by George Lazarlich 1976
H 2.5 in.(6.3cm.), W 1 in.(2.5cm.), D 1 in.(2.5cm.) Condition:
Slight worn, no damage Shoko
is a drunkard; usually portrayed as a woman, red-faced and red-haired and often,
as in this incredibly smooth and beautifully marked work, smiling affably, lost
in her cup. Here the overturned cup has grown to enormous proportions (showing
her prodigious capacity for imbibing;) she steadies it on top of her head as she
stands with one foot set firmly upon the foundation of contentment--the dipper--and
looks out with an affable grin. Although she is perfectly intact with no breakage,
her drunkenness has made her unable to stand up by herself, and for many years
she has depended on the wearer’s sash to keep her upright. It is difficult to
describe the alluring tactility of this piece. The unusual material, perhaps narwhal
tusk, is extremely dense with a jewel-like hardness and color ranging from creamy
white to pale gold with streaks of blue. It is highly polished and exceedingly
smooth to the touch, marked by textured detail in the cloud patterned robes. Signature
on the rim of the overturned cup. Private Collection
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