This
fine authentic Baku netsuke displays a masterful carving style that unquestionably
dates it to 18th century Edo. The intricate relationship of curves, arcs and roundels
is the work of a supremely accomplished artist, one firmly established in the
use of ivory as his primary material, expertly articulating such flamboyant features
as the billowing balls of fur, the pointed claws and the curl elephant trunk which
possesses a distinctly antiquity appearance and lends a sophisticated touch of
humor.
The
major carvers of The Tokyo School such as Komei and Yoshida Homei are recognized
and recorded and the works of their schools highly prized. During the 70-year
period between 1780 and 1850, (considered the golden age of netsuke) a multitude
of fine quality netsuke were produced by artists located in Osaka, Kyoto, and
Edo (Tokyo), who had access to ivory, while artists outside of these population
centers used box or cherry wood, narwhal (marine ivory), boar's tusk, amber, stag
antler, pottery, bamboo etc.
Netsuke
of the Edo school, such as this shishi, exhibit motifs and techniques favored
by the material--ivory is exceptionally close grained and may be cut in any direction,
allowing ex! treme fineness of detail, unrestricted undercutting, and a high hand
polish with the characteristic unctuous surface and translucence of ivory. The
baku's eyes are meticulously inset with minute orbs of translucent horn. The bristling
fur has been finely and rhythmically delineated, as have the individual teeth
and the upright ears, which have been bored with small holes, presumably to allow
the shishi to hear subtle sounds. A tongue of flame can be seen emerging from
beneath the animal’s right paw.