Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from marine ivory, most likely walrus, depicting the head of a baku, the nightmare devouring elephant-headed creature with a curling mane like a shishi. The netsuke is boldly carved with a large curling trunk, two tusks on either side, thick reishi-shaped brows, floppy ears, and a finely carved bushy mane. The pupils are inlaid in dark horn. The mouth of the mythical beast is opened, the tongue curling and forming the cord attachment. The underside is generously excavated with further himotoshi, and it appears that this netsuke was at one point also used as a cane handle. LENGTH 7 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor wear, tiny hole to the back of the mane. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.
Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Carved from marine ivory, most likely walrus, depicting the head of a baku, the nightmare devouring elephant-headed creature with a curling mane like a shishi. The netsuke is boldly carved with a large curling trunk, two tusks on either side, thick reishi-shaped brows, floppy ears, and a finely carved bushy mane. The pupils are inlaid in dark horn. The mouth of the mythical beast is opened, the tongue curling and forming the cord attachment. The underside is generously excavated with further himotoshi, and it appears that this netsuke was at one point also used as a cane handle. LENGTH 7 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor wear, tiny hole to the back of the mane. Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection, Paris.
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