KOKEI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A HORSE WITH YOUNG

KOKEI: A RARE WOOD NETSUKE OF A HORSE WITH YOUNG
By Kokei, signed Kokei 虎溪
Japan, Kuwana, Ise province, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Published: Bandini, Rosemary (2014) Japanese Netsuke of the Collection of Teddy Hahn, no. 22.

Finely carved as a horse and foal, the young clambering somewhat awkwardly over the mother's back, almost slipping, while the adult looks to its left, the legs tucked neatly underneath the body, forming a compact composition. The fur coat of the mother is incised with bold strokes while the foal's remains smooth, beautifully polished, and attractively worn. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath one haunch KOKEI.

LENGTH 3.4 cm

Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear, fine naturally grown patina.
Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt. Purchased from Barry Davies, London.

Auction comparison:
A wood netsuke of a horse by Kokei was sold by Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 24 November 2018, Vienna, lot 18 (sold for 3,792 EUR).