Japan - Taishō period (1912-1926)

A beautiful antique netsuke depicting a sumo wrestler (rikishi), an athletic man who competes in the traditional Japanese sport of sumo wrestling, known for its corpulent practitioners who use their weight to exert force, aiming to push their opponent out of the ring or to make them touch the ground on parts of their body other than their feet.

This detailed figurine is handmade and demonstrates high-quality craftsmanship. A unique collector's item for lovers of Japanese art and culture.

Handmade from Tagua. Tagua is the material from the nut of the Tagua palm (Phytelephas macrocarpa or aequatorialis). When dried, the flesh of the nut becomes hard and white like ivory, hence the name palm ivory. Because the nut is so hard, it can be worked like ivory, and also has the appearance, color, and luster of ivory.

Netsuke were used in Japan as a practical and decorative element for attaching small items to an obi (belt). This piece (on a wooden stand) is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and would make a valuable addition to any collection. The artist's signature is on the bottom.