Antique Japanese Tonkotsu Complete Set
Tonkotsu
Ox Netsuke, Ojimi, Pipe Case
Signature: not translated, Circa: 19th Century
Netsuke: H 1 in.(2.5cm), W 2.25 in.(5.5cm), D 1.25 in.(3cm)
Pipe Case: H 8.5 in.(21cm), W 1 in.(2.5cm), D 0.7 in.(2cm)
Box: H 1.5 in.(4cm), W 3.5 in.(9cm), D 3 in.(7.5cm)
Condition: excellent!

Rustic naturalism and delicate artistry come together in this 19th century Japanese antique multi-media pipe set. A pressed horn, tsutsu (pipe case) is intricately carved with symmetrical precision that reveals a pattern similar to a finely woven basket. The tsutsu is bonded with two weighted brass bands. The pipe (kiseru) is in a golden hued bamboo offset by brass fittings with silver gilt. A full round ivory ojime is in counterpoint to a finely carved wooden netsuke of a resting bull and calf. The bull’s eyes are delicate insets of black coral that glisten and beckon with life. Two himotoshi are on the side of the bull and a ivory reserved signature is inset into the bull’s back haunch. A rustic circular container with fine grain and the asymmetry of wabi-sabi can hold loose tobacco and is marked on its lid by an interpretive grass script. In excellent condition the tonkotsu shows the mark of many hands, a pleasured usage through time. (SD)

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