A fine and fragile carving – depicted is a kneeling oni applying moxa, in the form of a burning hot needle, to a Nio. The guardian deity is lying down resting his head on his hand and seems to be undisturbed by the application of moxa to his leg, as his expression is that of a typical Nio. The oni is repentant as moxibustion was part of the ordination process for Buddhist monks in Japan. Note the very fine details of the carving – the garlands of the Nio, the individual fingers and toes and the decorations of the garments, as well as the carefully carved expressions. Natural himotoshi and signature on the back SHUNKA. The carving bears some resemblance to Tomomasa.

Category:

Netsuke

Subcategory:

-

Subject:

Mythological

Material:

Ivory

Age/Country:

19th Century

Artist:

Shunka

Provenance/Owner:

Galerie Zacke

Signed:

signed

Type:

Katabori

Height:

26mm mm

Width:

50mm mm

Depth:

mm

ID number: