A LARGE AND BEGUILING WOOD NETSUKE OF AN OX

拍品描述

A LARGE AND BEGUILING WOOD NETSUKE OF AN OX Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Powerfully carved as a recumbent ox with its head lowered and tail swept to one side, a rope halter draped across its back. The ribs and spine are subtly articulated, while the fur is rendered with a naturalistic, slightly roughened texture. The animal is finely detailed with elegantly curved horns, funnel-shaped ears, and large eyes inlaid dark, lending a gentle and contemplative expression. The underside is carved with notably large and asymmetrical himotoshi, the larger opening of distinct oval form. LENGTH 7.9 cm The present carving is difficult to attribute to a specific school. Stylistically, it shows affinities with the Nagoya tradition, particularly in the treatment of the textured fur recalling the manner of Tametaka. At the same time, the unusually large, oval himotoshi is more characteristic of early Kyoto workmanship, suggesting an intriguing intersection of regional influences. Auction comparison: Compare a related smaller wood netsuke of an ox and calf, attributed to Tametaka, 5.1 cm long, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 69 (sold for EUR 4,666).

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