Antique
Japanese Ivory Netsuke Fukurokuju
Happy Hour
Signature: Shofu. Circa: early 1900s'
h.
1.8 in.(4.5cm), w. 1.25 in.(3cm), d. 1.25 in.(3cm)
Condition: excellent! Fukurokujo
was introduced to Japan from China in the 15th century. The name "Fukurokuju"
is actually a combination of three Chinese characters, "Fu", "Lu", and "Shu" which
represent three Chinese Star Gods of Good Fortune. The god of wisdom, wealth,
and longevity, the bearded Fukurokuju has an unusually high forehead, and is typically
shown holding a cane with a sutra scroll (hebi) attached or as he is shown here
with a drinking vessel (tokkuri) in his left hand.
Private Collection
| | This
antique ivory netsuke communicates levity and artistic symmetry. Here, Fukuroju
carries a shapely gourd filled we imagine with a tasty rice wine which is being
poured into the cup in his right hand. His full body is in motion as though he
is moving towards us to offer a drink, an offer, to join in the good fortune and
well being which is his abundance. On this ivory Fukuroju's head with its enlarged
fontanel and elongated crown mirrors the shape of the gourd. His face is masculine
and jovial with a luxuriant full beard and mustache, plump round cheeks and expressive
laughing eyes. His ears are of particular interest. Abnormally plump they also
mirror the shape of the gourd and have a particular phallic signature. Fukurokuju's
hands are highly articulated and his robes and full-legged trousers playfully
sumptious with different textile motifs (delicately etched leaves and vines) distinguishing
each garment. His slippers have a highly defined and detailed tread. When looking
at this ivory from multiple angles one can truly appreciate the level of artistry.
(SD)
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