An ivory netsuke depicting the Rokkasen (六歌仙, Six Immortal Poets), celebrated poets of the first imperial anthology of Japanese poetry. The group is carved in the round, with the six figures distinguished by their characteristic attributes: Ariwara no Narihira is shown in court attire with bow and arrows. Sojō Henjō appears as a monk with ritual sceptre and Buddhist rosary (juzu), symbolising his dual religious and poetic nature. Ono no Komachi, the only female figure, is depicted with delicate features and a long robe, standing with a staff. Kisen Hōshi, the hermit, is seated, with austere features and simple garments. Ōtomo no Kuronushi stands in an energetic, almost caricatural pose, reflecting his reputation as an eccentric poet. Fun’ya no Yasuhide holds a writing brush, underlining his role as a man of letters and his reputation as an elegant poet. Excellent colour and patina, with fine detailing. Himotoshi under the base next to the signature Gyokuzan. Netsuke, composed of the kanji ne (根), meaning "root," and tsuke (付け), meaning "to attach," are small Japanese sculptures originally used as fasteners to secure objects to the sashes of kimono (obi 帯). From the late 19th century they became highly collectible in Europe and America, admired for the variety of subjects, the fine details, the patina and their strong tactile appeal. ---The netsuke is in very good condition. Please refer to the pictures for further details. We will pack your object with the utmost care and entrust it to DHL or FedEx for delivery within 1–3 days. This lot complies with the current European Community regulations for the trade of pre-1947 worked ivory. The original CITES certificate will be delivered together with the object (valid only within the European Union). The original certificate of authenticity issued by our gallery will be provided to the buyer.. This item cannot be sold outside the EU--- 255