IKKAN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT HORSE

IKKAN: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT HORSE
By Ikkan (1817-1893), signed Ikkan 一貫
Japan, Nagoya, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Published: Bandini, Rosemary (2019) The Larry Caplan Collection of Japanese Netsuke, p. 52, no. 27.

The horse is shown in a classic recumbent posture, turning its head back over its left shoulder. The animal's expression is sensitively crafted, the mane is finely incised and falls in tresses over its neck. The hairwork is minutely incised and appropriately worn in all the right places. The tail sweeps round to the front. The underside is equally beautifully carved, showing the legs neatly tucked in for compactness. Signed IKKAN in a polished reserve on the underside. The 'natural' himotoshi runs through the horse's left front and hindleg.

HEIGHT 2.7 cm, LENGTH 3.7 cm

Condition: Excellent condition.
Provenance: Collection of Larry Caplan, Toronto.

Auction comparison:
Compare to another horse by the artist sold by Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part I, 8 November 2016, London, lot 83 (sold for 8.125 GBP). Another horse, more closely related to the present example, was sold by Christie's, Japanese Art and Design including Lacquer and Works of Art, 12 November 2003, London, lot 202 (sold for 4.182 GBP).