A lovely stag-antler netsuke of a Gama Sennin with a toad with black horn eyes - Stag antler, Black horn - Japan - Edo period (Early 19th century)

Elegant netsuke carved from deer horn with an excellent golden patina depicting a Gama Sennin with his toad lying on his shoulder, held by the hind leg with the left hand.

The toad's eyes are made of black horn.

---The netsuke is in excellent condition. Please refer to the images for further details.

The most important netsuke collections are now outside Japan, acquired at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century by European and American collectors, as the Japanese abandoned the daily use of netsuke in favor of Westernization of customs and manners.

The Netsuke ideogram, composed of the kanji "ne" (根) meaning "root" and "tsuke" (付け) meaning "to hang", indicates the origin of this object. Initially, the Netsuke was literally a root or a cut piece of wood, hung from the obi, the sash that ties the kimono.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Netsuke became the quintessential collectible item, with pieces all different in subject, form, and material, that intrigue and impress with their patina and the tiny miniaturized details, but especially with their tactile charge.

However, it is important not to confuse authentic Netsuke with poor Chinese reproductions in bone or other materials, which can mislead those approaching these objects for the first time.

To fully appreciate the difference in quality and the material used, one must caress, touch, and observe these small Japanese sculptures up close.

--- We will package your item with the utmost care and entrust it to DHL or FedEx who will handle delivery within 1-3 days.

The certificate of authenticity prepared by Luca Mastromauro, expert in Japanese art, will be delivered to the buyer. ---
939