Antique
Japanese Ivory Netsuke
w. Inlay
Ronin
Samurai
Riding On Raft
Netsuke Signature: Masanao, early 20th
century
H
2 in.(5cm), W 1 in.(2.5cm), D 1.25 in.(3cm)
Condition: excellent! A
ronin samurai rides a raft on windy day, a force at one with the elements. The
Japanese ronin were beholden to no masters and were popularly considered both
outcasts and heroes. This early 20th century Masanao school netsuke is rendered
in powerful strokes. Highly polished to a even shine. The free warrior is stout
and powerful, his countenance, full of character is both humored, potent and weathered.
The samurai holds his wooden pole with a deftness and agility that is reminiscent
of a kendo swordsman. His kimono whipped by the wind is both artful and masculine.
The raft he rides is ornately rendered in high detail and is signed at the bottom
with an oval reserve. This netsuke is an excellent example of the visceral potency
and acumen of the work. (SD)
| 
Sold
to Private Collection |
