Antique
Japanese Netsuke Sleeping
Beauty
Pearl Diver On Clam Shell
Signed: Bunaki (Bunmei), Taisho, 1920,s
H
1.5 in.(3.8cm.), W 2 in.(5cm.), D 1 in.(2.5cm.)
Condition: Excellent The
pearl diver has made a large clamshell into her couch and fell asleep. Her head
gently bends to the shoulder, black hair cascading over creamy skin, lips curved
in a crimson smile. The difficult arrangement of the figure is accomplished while
maintaining the mood of indolent sensuality. Though the girl seems to be asleep,
she is undoubtedly aware of her provocative impact, for she has dropped her garment
with less than complete unconcern, her parted knees and crossed ankles contrast
her openness with a certain modesty. Possibly from a real model, face of the girl
is meticulously modeled, restating her loveliness from every angle. Her delicate
hands and feet are carefully sculpted, with the toes visible on the underside.
The netsuke is both tactile and sensitively realized with fine details and high-hand
finishing. The pale ivory is offset by the darks of the hair and robe, contributing
a lyrical balance to the design. |
Private Collection
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