AN AMUSING INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAM

AN AMUSING INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A KAPPA ON HAMAGURI CLAM
Unsigned Japan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

An amusing study depicting a kappa with its left hindleg stuck inside the jaws of a hamaguri clam. The kappa's eyes are inlays of bone within gilt metal surrounds, with stained pin prick pupils which peer to the left. The hinge of the shells shows inlays of shell and the barely visible flesh of the clam in the back is inlaid in bone. The hollow section of the kappa's head, which holds its vital fluids, is inlaid in mother-of-pearl. The mythical creature's shell is finely carved and the unarmored body parts are covered in masterful ukibori pimples. Himotoshi through the underside. This model was frequently carved by Komin, however the rather idiosyncratic gilt metal surrounds used for the eyes are quite typical of Hidari Issan.

LENGTH 3.6 cm

Condition: Very good condition. Minor wear to the gilt metal surrounds of the eyes.
Provenance: British collection. Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 168. German private collection, acquired from the above.