A FINE INLAID UMIMATSU NETSUKE OF A SNAIL ON BRANCH

拍品描述

A FINE INLAID UMIMATSU NETSUKE OF A SNAIL ON BRANCH Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely carved in umimatsu, this netsuke depicts a snail slithering along a branch, the silvery outer bark of the branch rendered with finely incised striations to suggest texture and natural form. The snail is modeled in bone with its foot spread outward. Good himotoshi underneath. HEIGHT 6 cm Umimatsu, literally “sea pine,” is a deep-water coral valued for its varied growth forms and distinctive coloration. In addition to its use in the decorative arts, it has historically been associated with protective and auspicious qualities.

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