Antique
Japanese Carved Inro 12
Zodiac Animals
Signed: Yoshigawa. Edo Era, mid 19th Century
H
2.5in.(6.5cm.), W 2.25in.(5.5cm.), D 2in.(5cm.)
Condition: Good w. losses
Zodiac
animals netsuke are quite popular since over the years many buyers commissioned
carvings depicting the animals under whose influence they were born. Nevertheless,
authentic 19th century zodiac inro are rather rare. Shown here is a three-case
inro carved from a single block of quality Asian ivory in high cameo relief. The
composition focuses on the four protruding animals carved in the round, with eight
others tightly woven into the spatial configuration on both sides. Their features
are enlivened in their movements with fine details. The ivory is beautifully aged
with a highly polished even lustre. It appears to come from the core of the tusk,
with a patina varying from a rich cream to light-gold. There are a few tiny chips
on closer observation: the bull figure appears to have lost a horn, and three
other protruding animals also suffer from chipped feet. Otherwise the inro remains
in very good condition despite its age. Private Collection | |