Beschreibung:

Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The tiger seated on a short rod of bamboo consisting of two nodes, raising one paw rather playfully as it turns to the left baring its fangs which are inlaid in pale horn. The fur is neatly engraved, and the typical fur markings are rendered with fine incision work. Himotoshi through the bamboo rod. The wood bearing a very appealing patina. LENGTH 4.7 cm Condition: Very good condition, appealingly worn. Provenance: English private collection. This representation is rather rare in wood. This motif is called take no tora, “tiger in bamboo”. There are many different interpretations; the tiger has a strong nature, is flexible and resilient like the bamboo, but it is also said that the strong tiger is looking for shelter underneath the bamboo, as any earthly power is inferior to the forces of nature. Moreover, the tiger and bamboo represent the power of faith in Buddhism.