MINKO: A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON

MINKO: A POWERFUL WOOD NETSUKE OF A COILED DRAGON

By Tanaka Juntoku Minko (1735-1816), signed Minko 岷江 and kakihan
Japan, Tsu, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Boldly carved as a powerfully coiling dragon, forming a compact composition, wound in several tight loops, its head resting on top and holding a tama pearl in one clawed hand, the scales finely incised with flames emanating from its body. The mythical beast's mouth is open, snarling enigmatically, the large eyes inlaid in brass with black wood. Natural himotoshi and signed underneath within a polished reserve MINKO with the artist's characteristic kakihan.

LENGTH 3.8 cm

Condition: Very good condition with typical wear and traces of use.

Tanaka Juntoko Minko (1735-1816) was one of the few names mentioned in the Soken Kisho of 1781, the first publication mentioning netsuke. He was famous during his lifetime and is widely regarded as one of the greatest netsuke carvers.

Literature comparison:
Minko's dragons are rare. For a closely related wood netsuke of a dragon holding a tama, by Minko, see Sotheby's, Netsuke from the Collection of Raymond and Frances Bushell, 18 November 1999, London, lot 224. For another closely related wood netsuke of a coiled dragon, by Minko, see Sotheby's, The Betty Jahss Collection of Netsuke – Part II, 14 November 1991, London, lot 74.