Large Antique Japanese Ivory Netsuke
Thunder God
Raiden Mask
Netsuke Signature: Tomomitsu, 19th Century
Recorded artist in Netsuke by N.K. Davey #2993
H 1.75 in.(4.5cm.), W 1.5 in.(4cm), D 0.7 in.(2 cm)
Condition: minor abrasion, o.a. excellent


Sold to Private COllection

An unusually large mask netsuke signed by Tomomitsu, a member of the Deme family. Hailing from Edo (Tokyo), this family produced a large number of netsuke carvers beginning in the 18th century, though originally, they were known as carvers of full sized masks for theatrical performances dating as far back as the 10th century. In this stained ivory carving of the Shinto thunder god Raiden (Raijin), two eyes menacingly stare outward under a heavenly creased brow. It is said that Raijin was originally an evil demon who was captured by Buddha’s army of heaven, and has worked as a god ever since. Excepting a minor abrasion on the upper left corner, the piece is in excellent condition.