Antique Popping Eyes Trick Ivory Netsuke
Shoki
To Catch An Oni
Netsuke Signature: Gyokuichi, Circa: 19th century
Recorded in: Netsuke, A Comprehensive Study Based on
the M.T. Hindson Collection by Neil K. Davey, #403
H 2.5 in.(6.3cm.), W 1.5 in.(4cm.), D 1 in.(2.5cm.)
Condition: Excellent

Standing on one foot in perfect balance, Shoki the Ghost Eater, whose Chinese name is Zongkai the Judge of Hell. He is a Buddhist deity commonly worshipped as a demon queller in China and Japan, traditionally shown in an aggressive pose slaying demons with drawn sword.However, given the characteristic Japanese love of laughter, Shoki is often represented in netsuke as a comical hero. As depicted here, he is tricked by the sharp witted oni atop of his large hat.

PRIVATE COLLECTION

Signed on the base, the carver Gyokuichi is a 19th century netsukeshi recorded in the M.T.Hindson's Collection by Neil K. Davey. As evidence in this series of netsuke, he was greatly influenced by master carver Toen (1820-94), who is famoused for his ningyo/doll combined ittobori style wood netsuke.. Though Gyokuichi never achieved the status of his master, nevertheless, his trick netsuke in ivory were made in many clever ways. His gods and heros are more silly than reverent, and oni more humane than devilish. Throughout the subject matter in this "popping eyes series", Gyokuichi is both bold and wild with a lively sense of humor. His netsuke designs forgo most unnecessary details, but focus on what is tactile and functional. Clearly, his main emphasis is to amuse and produce joy and laughter.