A GOOD WOOD NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH CHILD

A GOOD WOOD NETSUKE OF A DUTCHMAN WITH CHILD

Unsigned
Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Typically depicted with shoulder-length, curling hair and exaggerated features, clad in a coat with a pleated collar, carrying a boy on his back and a Chinese trumpet (lapa) in his right hand. Each carved with a beaming face, the Dutchman laughing at the little boy's antics, his eyes crinkling as a result. The wood bearing a fine dark patina, and with large asymmetrical himotoshi through the back.

HEIGHT 7 cm

Condition: Good condition with minor typical wear and surface rubbing. An old, smoothened chip to the trumpet.

In the Edo period, Dutch merchants were the only Europeans admitted to Japan, where they were confined to the island of Deshima. Interestingly, the lapa (trumpet) in this Dutchman's hand is also foreign, being of Chinese origin.

Auction comparison:
Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a Dutchman with child, 18th century, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 22 April 2022, Vienna, lot 17 (sold for EUR 3,034).