TOMOTADA: A SUPERB IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT COW AND CALF
By Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠
Japan, Kyoto, second half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An exceptionally fine and pleasingly worn rendition of the Tomotada cow and calf motif, though in this particular model the calf lies under the mother’s raised head and is larger than usual, as well as carved with a heightened sense of detail. The cow’s eyes are of dark reddish horn, carefully inlaid to give life to her expression. Deep-yellow patina, especially to the underside which houses the generously hollowed-out and asymmetrical himotoshi, as well as the coherent signature TOMOTADA within a typical rectangular reserve.
Positive attributions of Tomotada oxen are difficult, but the unusual positioning of the calf, the quality of carving overall and the excellent inlay of the eyes all are good indications of this netsuke being by the master himself.
LENGTH 6.1 cm
Condition: Good condition. The ivory is worn, excellent patina. Age cracks. A section of the right horn and ear with an old restoration.
Provenance: Old French private collection.
Lot details
By Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠
Japan, Kyoto, second half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An exceptionally fine and pleasingly worn rendition of the Tomotada cow and calf motif, though in this particular model the calf lies under the mother’s raised head and is larger than usual, as well as carved with a heightened sense of detail. The cow’s eyes are of dark reddish horn, carefully inlaid to give life to her expression. Deep-yellow patina, especially to the underside which houses the generously hollowed-out and asymmetrical himotoshi, as well as the coherent signature TOMOTADA within a typical rectangular reserve.
Positive attributions of Tomotada oxen are difficult, but the unusual positioning of the calf, the quality of carving overall and the excellent inlay of the eyes all are good indications of this netsuke being by the master himself.
LENGTH 6.1 cm
Condition: Good condition. The ivory is worn, excellent patina. Age cracks. A section of the right horn and ear with an old restoration.
Provenance: Old French private collection.
Sale price
Time, Location
Auction House
By Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠
Japan, Kyoto, second half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An exceptionally fine and pleasingly worn rendition of the Tomotada cow and calf motif, though in this particular model the calf lies under the mother’s raised head and is larger than usual, as well as carved with a heightened sense of detail. The cow’s eyes are of dark reddish horn, carefully inlaid to give life to her expression. Deep-yellow patina, especially to the underside which houses the generously hollowed-out and asymmetrical himotoshi, as well as the coherent signature TOMOTADA within a typical rectangular reserve.
Positive attributions of Tomotada oxen are difficult, but the unusual positioning of the calf, the quality of carving overall and the excellent inlay of the eyes all are good indications of this netsuke being by the master himself.
LENGTH 6.1 cm
Condition: Good condition. The ivory is worn, excellent patina. Age cracks. A section of the right horn and ear with an old restoration.
Provenance: Old French private collection.
Lot details
By Tomotada, signed Tomotada 友忠
Japan, Kyoto, second half of 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An exceptionally fine and pleasingly worn rendition of the Tomotada cow and calf motif, though in this particular model the calf lies under the mother’s raised head and is larger than usual, as well as carved with a heightened sense of detail. The cow’s eyes are of dark reddish horn, carefully inlaid to give life to her expression. Deep-yellow patina, especially to the underside which houses the generously hollowed-out and asymmetrical himotoshi, as well as the coherent signature TOMOTADA within a typical rectangular reserve.
Positive attributions of Tomotada oxen are difficult, but the unusual positioning of the calf, the quality of carving overall and the excellent inlay of the eyes all are good indications of this netsuke being by the master himself.
LENGTH 6.1 cm
Condition: Good condition. The ivory is worn, excellent patina. Age cracks. A section of the right horn and ear with an old restoration.
Provenance: Old French private collection.
Sale price
Time, Location
Auction House
