Antique
Japanese Ivory Netsuke
Yoshitsune
Practicing
with Sojobo
Signature: Unsigned, Circa: 19th Century
H
2.5 in.(6.5cm), W 1.5 in.(4cm), D 1
in.(2.5cm)
Condition: chip to toes, hairlines
A
19th Century netsuke of natural himotoshi. Carved from the tip of the tusk, cream
to light gold in color, very well carved and detailed with engraving and sumi,
age patina and slight wear from handling over time, depicting the legendary young
general Yoshitsune with Sojobo, the king of the tengu. The karasu tengu (who have
bird beaks and wings and wear the tokin, a hat useful for drinking sake) are immensely
skilled in the martial arts, imparting their knowledge to Samurai they deem worthy.
Sojobo trained Yoshitsune in swordsmanship, military tactics and magic. Here the
youthful commander is seen playing his flute, an instrument pleasing to tengu,
while Sojobo strikes a fighting posture.
Private
Collection |  |
