Antique Japanese Ivory Netsuke
Fukurokuju
Happy Hour
Signature: Shofu. Circa: early 1900s'
h. 1.8 in.(4.5cm), w. 1.25 in.(3cm), d. 1.25 in.(3cm)
Condition: excellent!

Fukurokujo was introduced to Japan from China in the 15th century. The name "Fukurokuju" is actually a combination of three Chinese characters, "Fu", "Lu", and "Shu" which represent three Chinese Star Gods of Good Fortune. The god of wisdom, wealth, and longevity, the bearded Fukurokuju has an unusually high forehead, and is typically shown holding a cane with a sutra scroll (hebi) attached or as he is shown here with a drinking vessel (tokkuri) in his left hand.

Sold to Private Collection

This antique ivory netsuke communicates levity and artistic symmetry. Here, Fukuroju carries a shapely gourd filled we imagine with a tasty rice wine which is being poured into the cup in his right hand. His full body is in motion as though he is moving towards us to offer a drink, an offer, to join in the good fortune and well being which is his abundance. On this ivory Fukuroju's head with its enlarged fontanel and elongated crown mirrors the shape of the gourd. His face is masculine and jovial with a luxuriant full beard and mustache, plump round cheeks and expressive laughing eyes. His ears are of particular interest. Abnormally plump they also mirror the shape of the gourd and have a particular phallic signature. Fukurokuju's hands are highly articulated and his robes and full-legged trousers playfully sumptious with different textile motifs (delicately etched leaves and vines) distinguishing each garment. His slippers have a highly defined and detailed tread. When looking at this ivory from multiple angles one can truly appreciate the level of artistry. (SD)