 | Old
Japanese Ivory Okimono Netsuke
Happy
Man
Carrying Okame Mask
Netsuke Signature: Gyokuho, circa: early
1900S'
Recorded Artist in Netsuke, A Comprehensive Study Based on
the M.T. Hindson
Collection by Neil K. Davey #399
H 2 in.(5cm.), W 2 in.(5cm.),
D 1.75in.(4,5cm.)
Condition: very good!Perhaps
originally designed as an okimono. This large and heavy Sumo netsuke is suitable
only for a very large man. Carved from a fine and close-grained mass, with creamy
color and golden patina of age. A figure prepares to lift a massive Kyogen theatre
mask secured by a sling around his shoulders. Well carved with realism and attention
to detail, with fine engraving for the hair lines and the patterns of the clothing,
the mask representing Okame, also called Otafuku, the Goddess of Mirth, who lures
the sun god out of a cave by performing an erotic dance, thus restoring light
to the world.
Private
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