An
exceptionally well carved netsuke by an outstanding Meiji era artist. Although
we presently have no record of Senzan in our archives, the quality of the concept
and carving as well as the ebullient expressiveness and the attention to detail
and finish elevate this netsuke to master status.
Ebisu
straddles a giant carp whose eyes are inlaid horn; its tail raised. The fish looks
up lugubriously at the god of wealth, whose merry face and infectious good humor
assure that all will be well. Beautifully proportioned, natural in action, and
firmly carved in every respect, including the scales and fins of the fish and
the delicate engraving of Ebisu’s face, eyebrows and beard. Himotoshi on the bottom,
near the signature, which is engraved on a metal reserve on the bottom: Senzan.
