The legendary 12th century Japanese hero Benkei as a child riding a writhing carp is a familiar subject. Though, few can compare with this magnificently realized miniature sculpture carved by Shozan; an early Edo artist whose netsuke carvings are rarely available today.

This superb 18th century ivory netsuke stands barely over 1 inch tall; but the sublime technique and sculptural composition set this netsuke apart from the ordinary. The ivory appearers to be come from a takata, (noticeably, the fish tail is thinly carved, yet remains in excellent condition.) it has an original aged rich cream patina and a high-handed smooth finish. The fish eyes are inlaid in a jet black coral called umimatsu. The artist signature: Shozan is inlaid on a mother-o'-pearl plaque. The netsuke is in mint condition. There is no damage or crack lines. Serious collectors welcome !

PRIVATE COLLECTION