Antique
Japanese Ivory Netsuke
Toba
Sage On Horse
Netsuke
Signature: Meizan, circa: Meiji
Recorded
artist in "Netsuke" by N K Davey #1543
H
3 in.(7.5cm), W 1 in.(2.5cm), D 0.75 in.(2cm)
Condition: excellent!
Toba (Soshi) was a 11th century Chinese statesman, calligrapher and poet
of the Song Dynasty. Accused of intrigue by the emperor he went into exile. Hence
he exemplifies the free spirit of a wise man. As in this Meiji Period ivory netsuke,
Toba is wandering on a horse. A highly stylized outstanding prototype. The details
over the face of Toba is remarkably expressive. The acute gesture of his finely
detailed hands that hold the rope to the horse high-lighted the docile animal
with great charm. Its fine artistry shows in the deeply carved parallel horse
hairlines and intricate scrimshaw work. The netsuke is in perfect condition, it
has a beautiful cream patina which comes only with age.
Sold
to Private Collection
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