A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A LEAPING CARP AMONGST TURBULENT WAVES

A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF A LEAPING CARP AMONGST TURBULENT WAVES

Unsigned
Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

The violent waves boldly carved, crashing around the carp while it leaps out of the water twisting its body as the water catches it in its fall, wrapping around its body in bold swaths accentuated with black staining. The fish's skin finely detailed with overlapping scales and incised fins; its eyes inlaid in lustrous dark horn. The wood is finely stained and has a rich patina. Two generously excavated himotoshi to the back and underside engulfed in the waves. The crisp carving and black staining possibly suggest an early Tanba school carver.

LENGTH 4.9 cm

Condition: Very good condition with minor typical wear.
Provenance: Bonhams London, 6 November 2012, lot 168. From the collection of Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt, acquired from the above. Theodor “Teddy” Hahn (1933-2012) was a well-known and respected collector of netsuke and other Asian works of art. After spending time in museums to study the early cultures of the world, finding particular interest in their sculptures, he began collecting. He remarked once, “I somehow knew it would have a profound influence on my life. How right I was. And how happy I have been.”

The carp is associated with strength and resilience. In Chinese mythology, the Longmen (lit. Dragon Gate) is located at the top of a waterfall cascading from a legendary mountain. The legend states that while many carps swim upstream against the river's strong current, few are capable or brave enough for the final leap over the waterfall. If a carp successfully makes the jump, it is transformed into a powerful dragon.

Auction comparison:
Compare a related wood netsuke of a carp ascending a waterfall with similarly detailed, signed Masakatsu, at Van Ham's, Asiatische Kunst, 9 June 2016, Cologne, lot 2438 (sold for EUR 16,770).