 | Antique
Japanese Netsuke
Karako Cowboy
Playing Flute
Signature:
not translated, Early 19th Century
H
1.6 in.(4cm), W 1.6 in.(4cm), D 1 in.(2.5cm)
Condition: usage worn, o.a. good 
Private Collection
| A
popular motif in Chinese decorative art, a boy plays flute on the back of an ox.
The boy’s clothing is finely but sparingly detailed while his flute is subtly
highlighted with red; the only addition of color to the creamy ivory. A happy
expression graces the boy’s face. The ox, as equally lassez faire, is imbued with
whimsical features; non-threatening horns (a symbol of Buddhist consciousness),
a rounded baby-like body, thinly etched and stained fur, and the impression of
bones poking through its rear haunches. A rope wrapped around its head leads up
to his young master’s chest, a thin ribbon of ivory rising from the ground. Unimpeded,
the two make for a fine coupling. Slightly worn, showing possible signs of loss
on the back of saddle. Heavily worn five character kanji signature on the bottom
is unreadable.
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