This fine ivory netsuke by the Osaka master Hidemasa depicts a scene from the Kyogen play called ‘Kani Yamabushi’ (Crab Warrior Priest). In the play a Yamabushi is openly bragging about the new powers he has gained through meditation and ascetism, while walking with his servant. On the road they meet a crab spirit and the Yamabushi orders his servant to break the animal’s shell. In return the crab attacks the servant and the Yamabushi priest tries to save him with prayers and meditation, however, ends up getting himself caught in its pincers. In this amusing netsuke a very large crab is pinching the Yamabushi in his right earlobe, while he is holding a jingasa (war hat) in front of him. Interestingly, a horagai (conch instrument), frequently used by Yamabushi, however also relating to the crab, is depicted in front him. Natural himotoshi and signature on the underside of the large rock next to the crab HIDEMASA. Beautiful staining of the material typical for Hidemasa.

Category:

Netsuke

Subcategory:

-

Subject:

Mythological

Material:

Ivory

Age/Country:

19th Century

Artist:

Hidemasa

Provenance/Owner:

Galerie Zacke

Signed:

signed

Type:

Katabori

Height:

35mm mm

Width:

45mm mm

Depth:

mm

ID number: