Antique
Polychrome Netsuke Jurojin
Lucky God Riding Crane
Signature: Gyokushi, Circa: 19th Century
H 1.25 in.(3cm),
W 2 in.(5cm), D 0.75 in.(2cm) Condition: hairline, o.a. good
The
creamy whiteness of ivory gives this piece a freshness of appearance despite its
age; the 19th century work depicts the god of luck, longevity and scholarship
enfolded in the snowy wings of a flying crane. Holding a manuscript and wearing
a benevolent expression, Jurojin looks up and out toward the viewer. The charm
of this work is in this kindly characterization and in the freely applied tones
of blue, orange, brown, green and pink on pristine ivory. On the bottom where
the long legs of the crane stretch back is the signature in red on a reserve.
--RW Private Collection | |