Japan – Netsuke in finely carved bone – Okame with...

Refined and evocative figurative netsuke (katabori-netsuke) in bone, finely carved, incised, and patinated, depicting a scene from Japanese tradition and folklore. The main figure portrays the deity of mirth and good fortune Okame (also known as Uzume), reclining in a relaxed pose with a smiling expression and the typical full cheeks. Behind her, a secondary figure (a small oni/demon tamed or a servant) is pounding a mixture in a mortar (suribachi) using a pestle (surikogi). The back of Okame's robe features delicate incised and darkened floral-themed patterns. Signature: On the base is the artist's hand-engraved signature in Japanese characters (kanji). Himotoshi holes (cord holes): Present and perfectly integrated into the sculpture on the back/base, with a neatly finished circular motif. Provenance: Japan Period: 20th Century (Shōwa Period / late Meiji) Material: Carved bone (with dark-incised details for hair, clothing, and signature) Condition: Good overall condition with a beautiful warm patina accrued over time. No obvious breaks or structural cracks are noted (please refer to the rich photographic gallery accompanying the description). Dimensions: Height: approx. 4.5 cm Width / Depth: approx. 6–6.5 cm

Estimate:£56.11

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