Two ivory netsuke of oxen and calves

Edo period (1615-1868), late 18th/early 19th century

Edo period (1615-1868), late 18th/early 19th century
The first an ox, recumbent, his head turned to the right as his calf lies at his side, a rope halter attached to a ring through his nose and passing over the back, the ox's pupils inlaid, the slightly worn ivory with a good patina, inscribed in a rectangular reserve Tomotada, 5.8cm (2¼in) wide; the second the same subject, carved in a similar manner, the ox's eyes inlaid, unsigned, 6.5cm (2½in) wide. (2).