A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAM

A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAM
By Masanao, signed Masanao 正直
Japan, Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

The kappa slouching over the hamaguri clam, one foot caught in its jaws, some of the fleshy interior of the clam revealed and lustfully stretching out after the water goblin. The kappa's expression is quite amusing, as it realizes its dilemma. The eyes are inlaid in dark horn. The kappa's warty skin is very well-carved, and its shell is neatly detailed. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath MASANAO. The wood bearing a fine patina.

LENGTH 4.7 cm

Condition: Very good condition, with some surface wear particularly to the underside.
Provenance: Most likely ex-collection Michael Tomkinson, collection no. 39 (described as a kappa coming out of a shell, signed Masanao).

Literature comparison:
A wood netsuke of a kappa and frog wrestling, by Masanao, is in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art, accession no. 76.72.40.