Antique
Japanese Carved Netsuke
Kara
Shishi
Lion On Large Ball
Netsuke
Signature: Unsigned, 19th Century
h. 1.3 in.(3.3cm), w. 1.3 in.(3.3cm), d. 7.5 in.(2cm)
Condition: slight usage worn, lost tooth! 
Private Collection
|  | Beautifully
carved 19th Century netsuke with bold delineation, compact form and classic symmetrical
composition, rugged hand tools quality with deep engraved line works. The netsuke
represents a temple lion with hieratic features and rhythmic patterning. The forward
mane of the beast is sectioned into five curling masses ending in knots, the remainder
parted into petal shapes that fold backward toward the lion’s five curling tails.
The ears are laid back against the body, the brow is deeply furrowed above the
glaring eyes, flared nostrils and bared teeth. The king of beast crouches over
a ball, claws gripping the surface, the fur at the elbows and feet gathering in
spirals. The patina on the right is noticeably lighter than pale gold on the left
side. Although unsigned, this netsuke demonstrates a high level of artistry which,
along with its age, mark it as a work of integrity.
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