| Antique
Japanese Antler Netsuke
Gama
Sennin
Netsuke Signature: unsigned,
18th Century
H
2.75in.(7cm), W 1.5in.(3.8cm), D 1in.(2.5cm)
Condition: feet missing A
superlative old carving in stag antler, representing Gama Sennin with frog, exceptional
in its design, with rhythmic arrangement of elements, delicate carving and expressive
details. The overall color is cream with cool highlights and some visible dark
grain. This work is distinguished by the level of artistry in its creation. The
face, for example is quite delicately incised with Gama’s rustic features, the
open mouth showing separately carved teeth, the hair falling over the large forehead
in a leaf-cut edge, supple lines of the garment falling in draped folds front
and back, the coat of overlapping mugwort leaves roundly finished. In contrast
to the bluish cast of the front, the back shows a golden wash of color. Gama Sennin
holds his staff, and does not grasp the frog, as he often does, to ensure prosperity.
In this work his frog companion rests freely on his shoulder. Despite losses,
the piece does not appear to lack anything, and stands upright. Private Collection |  |
