NETSUKE: ONNA DARUMA.
Japan. Edo period. 19th c.

Ivory; finely carved and engraved; the eyebrows inlaid black horn. Beautiful golden-yellow patina. In phallic shape; completely wrapped in her robe. In the seam of the robe a stylised inscription is hidden "A jewel of the night". Height 4.5cm. Signed: Hidemasa & Kakihan; cf. LA p. 460f. Condition A/B. Tiny age crack on the face.

Provenance:
-Collection Karl M. Schwarz; ill. Netsuke Subjects; 1992; no. 38.

Please note that objects made of ivory; rhinoceros horn and turtle shell; due to Cites regulations can only be sold within the European Community. At present the export in third countries is prohibited.
Art trade; Van Ham.