A very fine ivory netsuke depicting a large male monkey picking fleas off a smaller monkey, which is lying on its stomach, lying straightened out, and visibly enjoying his grooming. Their feets are touching and the overall composition of their bodies is very amusing. The work is very well detailed, the treatment of the fur is masterful, but what stands out are the sensitive and humorous expressions of the monkeys – a characteristic trait for the artist. A genuine netsuke by the great Masanao of Kyoto, though not his most outstanding work, however the facial expressions, composition and manner of carving without a doubt coherent with his style. Natural himotoshi, very good patina and signature in an oval reserve MASANAO.

Category:

-

Subcategory:

-

Subject:

Animal

Material:

Ivory

Age/Country:

18th Century

Artist:

Masanao

Provenance/Owner:

Galerie Zacke

Signed:

signed

Type:

Katabori

Height:

33mm mm

Width:

41mm mm

Depth:

mm

ID number: