Antique
Japanese Tonkotsu Complete Set Tonkotsu
Ox Netsuke,
Ojimi, Pipe Case
Signature: not translated, Circa: 19th Century Netsuke:
H 1 in.(2.5cm), W 2.25 in.(5.5cm), D 1.25 in.(3cm) Pipe
Case: H 8.5 in.(21cm), W 1 in.(2.5cm), D 0.7 in.(2cm) Box:
H 1.5 in.(4cm), W 3.5 in.(9cm), D 3 in.(7.5cm)
Condition: excellent! Rustic
naturalism and delicate artistry come together in this 19th century Japanese antique
multi-media pipe set. A pressed horn, tsutsu (pipe case) is intricately carved
with symmetrical precision that reveals a pattern similar to a finely woven basket.
The tsutsu is bonded with two weighted brass bands. The pipe (kiseru) is in a
golden hued bamboo offset by brass fittings with silver gilt. A full round ivory
ojime is in counterpoint to a finely carved wooden netsuke of a resting bull and
calf. The bull’s eyes are delicate insets of black coral that glisten and beckon
with life. Two himotoshi are on the side of the bull and a ivory reserved signature
is inset into the bull’s back haunch. A rustic circular container with fine grain
and the asymmetry of wabi-sabi can hold loose tobacco and is marked on its lid
by an interpretive grass script. In excellent condition the tonkotsu shows the
mark of many hands, a pleasured usage through time. (SD)
Private Collection
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