Private Collection |
19th
Century Japanese Okimono Netsuke Three
Heros
Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Signed: Ono Ryoji, Circa: Meiji
H 2.5in.(6.5cm.), W 2 in.(5cm), D 1.5in.(3cm)
Condition: very good Ono
Ryoji is a well documented 19th century master whose work is rarely encountered
outside of established collections. Some of his fine carvings are recorded in
1) The Netsuke Handbook by Raymond Bushell #834. 2) Netsuke, A Comprehensive Study
Based On The MT HIndson Collection by Neil Davey #2049. 3) Netsuke, A. Brockhaus
Leipzig 1905. 4) Netsuke, F.M. Jonas, Kobe 1928. The
remarkably complex and sumptuously detailed carving is a tribute to the brotherhood
of three eminent historical Chinese heroes of the 2nd century A.D. The scene is
a faithful rendering of Chinese legendary literature Romance of The Three Kingdom
(Sanguo Yanyi). In this depiction, the warriors Kanu
(Kuan Yu) and Chohi (Cheung Fai) are seated while Gentoku
(Lu Pei), first Emperor of the Lesser Han Dynasty, serves them wine, acknowledging
his indebtedness as Emperor for the support of his sworn brothers. |
| The
Three Heros are wearing ornate garments, woven armor and embroidered robes in
an animated display of surface decoration, firmly carved and fluently engraved.
The faces are fully individualized miniature portraits. While the God of War and
the Emperor confer, the vigilant Chohi turns away, settled in his armor and gripping
his brother's Green Dragon halberd, guarding the conference with glowering eyes.
Such lavish attention to detail over so complex a composition is the province
of only the most accomplished of artists--one with the ability and the spirit
with which this crowded scene is brought to life. The three figures are carved
from one piece of fine tusk ivory, with color ranging from light cream to honey.
Despite its age, it is in superb condition. --RW |
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