Tomochika II was a grandson of Tomochika I, whom he succeeded. Although quite similar to work by Tomochika I in its unusual subject and handling, and sharing several details with a man in a boat by Tomochika I illustrated in Netsuke: 112 Masterpieces from the Trumpf Collection by Patrizia Jirka-Schmitz, #20 ( Anoldsche, 2000), including the zigzag edging of the boat and the hems of the garments; nevertheless the size and degree of detail, along with the signature without reserve confirm our attribution to Tomochika II.

A miniature emblem of peace and abundance, with Daikoku and Ebisu afloat in a boat, Daikoku’s rat mascot at the oar. Carved from the tip of the tusk, the ivory is dense and close grained, cream to gold in color with age patina turning deep gold on the bottom, the surface with a high hand finish; slightly translucent. Finely carved with engraving and sumi; an elegant rhythmic play of waves on the bottom of the boat, which is fitted with an oni mask at the stern.