A finely carved and engraved ivory netsuke depicting a young karako (Chinese boy, 唐子) seated on a large drum (太鼓) with dark horn details. The child, with a lively expression, wears decorated garments finely incised with ink, while holding the drum’s cord. The subject of karako is very common in Japanese art, symbolizing joy, prosperity, and good fortune. Karako figures often represent innocence and the hopeful future. The drum, or taiko (太鼓), holds significant cultural importance in Japan, symbolizing not only music and celebration but also spiritual power and the rhythm of life. Drums are traditionally used in festivals, religious ceremonies, and theatrical performances, where their deep, resonant sounds are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring harmony. 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 good condition. Opening at the level of the himotoshi and wear of the polychromy. Please refer to the pictures for further details. The item will be carefully packed and shipped via DHL or FedEx, accompanied by the original certificate of authenticity issued by Mastromauro Japanese art gallery based in Milan, Italy. 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). This item cannot be sold outside the EU 260