This
unusual 19th century horn netsuke exhibits a compelling color tonality: gradiated
amber melds into moments of warm saffron, with hits of deeper browns. The motif
is unusual, a strongly rendered ornamental bullhead set in a backdrop pattern
of subtle geometrical cross-hatching. This netsuke is artfully shaped into the
form of a mokugyo. A traditional percussion instrument of Chinese origins, the
mokugyo is used in meditation rituals, particularly those in the tradition of
Mayahana and Zen Buddhism. The netsuke has two symmetrical himotoshi on the bottom
and is in good condition.