Antique Ivory Okimono Netsuke
Mizaru
3 Monkeys
Signature: unsigned. Circa: 19th Century
h. 1.5 in.(3.8cm), w. 1.4 in.(3.5cm), d. 1.4 in.(3.5cm)
condition: Very Good

The Japanese word for monkey, saru, sounds much like the negative verb form, zaru. Perhaps originating from a play on words, the three monkeys Mizaru, Kikazaru, and Iwazaru demonstrate the Buddhist injunction that if we do not see, hear, or speak evil, we will be spared of evil. This excellently carved okimono netsuke shows the three with their backs against one another. Which made into a tactile design may have been used as a netsuke. Each monkey features very finely etched fur enveloped in a warm brown patina; realistic, if slightly alarmed facial expressions, and beautifully proportioned posturing.

Sold to Private Collection