| Antique
Japanese Wood Netsuke Fukurokuju
Reading
Scroll
Signature: unsigned. Circa: 19th Century
H
2.5in.(6.5cm), W 1.25 in.(3cm), D 1 in.(2.5cm)
Condition: Very Good! Antique
Japanese wood netsuke, unstained deep reddish color with age patina and flecked
grain, affectionately well carved and polished to a high hand finish, depicting
Fukurokujo, a god of longevity; an immortal whose ebullient good spirits assure
long life and prosperity, holding his well known attribute, a wisdom scroll, from
which he reads an auspicious pronouncement. His impish face personifies the childlike
rustic sage as both wise and mischievous. Fukurokujo was introduced to Japan from
China in the 15th century. The name "Fukurokuju" is a combination of three Chinese
characters, "Fu", "Lu", and "Shu" which represent Chinese Star Gods of Good Fortune.
Private Collection |