| Antique
Ivory/Wood Netsuke
Fukurokuju
Shrine Netsuke
Netsuke
Signature: unsigned, 19th Century
H 1.25 in.(3cm), W 1.25 in.(3cm), D 1 in.(2.5cm)
Condition: very good!
An intriguing
and unusual netsuke, in the form of a shrine for Fukurokuju. Good fortune, happiness,
wealth and longevity are the boon of this ancient personage, who, with various
attributes and companions such as the crane, the long-tailed tortoise, a deer,
a staff, a manuscript roll and a sacred gem, bestows his gifts to all. The finely
carved miniature shrine is a grass-roofed hut beside a magical fruit tree whose
branches entwine as it rises up over the shrine engulfing it in leaves and stems
heavily laden with fruit, probably peaches, symbolizing longevity. Inside the
tiny structure is Fukurokujo, his impossibly tall head bumping the ceiling, reading
a scroll manuscript. The tiny ivory figure despite its size is a faithful rendering
of character, with smiling _expression, heavy eyebrows and beard, and draping
robes. The carving on this dark fruitwood is quite fine, with veined leaves and
fruit strewn like heavenly food gathering in blessing. Private Collection |
