A FINE TANBA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHISHI WITH YOUNG

A FINE TANBA SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHISHI WITH YOUNG

Unsigned
Japan, Tanba Province, early 19th century, Edo period (1915-1868)

Very finely carved, the large shishi sitting on top of its young which playfully struggles to escape the grip of its parent. The adult shishi holding a loose ball in its open mouth, its eyes of translucent pale horn. Asymmetrical and generously excavated himotoshi to the base. The wood bearing a rich, dark patina, indicating an early Tanba school piece.

LENGTH 4.2 cm

Condition: Very good condition with only minor wear and a few fine age cracks.
Provenance: J. Hubbard Ltd., 28 January 1987. English private collection, acquired from the above.

Auction comparison:
Compare a related Tanba School wood netsuke of a seated shishi, by Toyokazu, dated to the mid-19th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 28 April 2023, Vienna, lot 57 (sold for EUR 4,680).