A FINE RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A QUAIL AND MILLET

A FINE RYUSA MANJU NETSUKE OF A QUAIL AND MILLET
Unsigned
Japan, probably Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Published: Scholten Japanese Art (2001) Expressions of Style Netsuke as Art, p. 155, no. 199.

Of thick ryusa-manju shape, the front and back separated by a concentric central band. Depicted is a plump feathery quail standing on a rock underneath a canopy of millet grasses. The finely stained wood is carved with stunning detail, showing densely bundled and elegantly flowing grasses. The quail's visible eye is inlaid in dark horn. Several natural openings for the cord attachment.

The combination of quail and millet is popular in Japanese art and symbolizes Autumn.

DIAMETER 3.8 cm, THICKNESS 3 cm

Condition: Very good condition. Fine small age cracks.
Provenance: US private collection.