A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING GOAT

A FINE NAGOYA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING GOAT

Unsigned
Japan, Nagoya, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Of compact form, carved as a recumbent goat with its head looking straight ahead, the forelegs tucked under, and the shaggy coat finely engraved with accentuated lines. The face with its characteristically long snout, eyes carved to the side, and with pleasingly curving horns. The animal's inherent strength and toughness are perfectly expressed, inspiring those born under the sign of hitsuji (Year of the Ram) to overcome any difficulty with strength and perseverance. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside.

LENGTH 3.9 cm

Condition: Very good condition with minor surface wear and traces of use.

The goat (hitsuji) is the eighth zodiac animal and is responsible for the 6th month and the hours between 1pm and 3pm. Goats and sheep were not originally indigenous to Japan and were introduced there. Netsuke representations of these animals do not allow an exact distinction between goat and sheep or ram.