A Wood netsuke of Sojobo (the tenju king) hatching

Edo period (1615-1868), mid-late 19th century

Edo period (1615-1868), mid-late 19th century
Shown emerging from a large shell, one hand clutching a feathered fan, the other levering the rest of its lower body, one leg dangling over the front of the shell and both wings spread over the shell at the back, its eyes inlaid with pale horn; inscribed on the base Miwa with a kao. 4.5cm (1¾in) long.