IVORY NETSUKE OF A CAT AND A SMALL MONKEY

The large, recumbent cat (neko) forms a circle, its long tail does so as well. It is wearing a collar and appears to be quite pleased. A small monkey, tiny compared to the cat, is climbing on its back, and holds a peach in its paw, a symbol of longevity. The composition reminds one of the classic sarumawashi motif shown in catalog no. 143. Cats were brought into Japan from the 10th century from Japan, were favorite animals at the court and received nobility status. Very well-rounded composition, fine patina, very large himotoshi on the underside.

Category:
Netsuke
Subcategory:
-
Subject:
-
Material:
Ivory
Age/Country:
19th Century
Artist:
-
Provenance/Owner:
Galerie Zacke
Signed:
unsigned
Type:
Katabori
Height:
21mm mm
Width:
38mm mm
Depth:
mm
ID number:

You'd also like