NETSUKE: PILGRIM IN FRONT OF NARA COLUMN.
Japan. Edo period. 19th c.

Walrus tooth with finely carved; engraved; and dark accentuated details. Beautiful; golden-yellow patina. One pilgrim measuring the scope of the column with his arms in amazement. This can be found in the Todaiji in Nara; climbing through the square opening is supposed to bring luck. Height 4.8cm. Signed: Mitsumasa; cf. MCI p. 547. Condition A.

Provenance:
-Collection Karl M. Schwarz; ill. Netsuke Subjects; 1992; no. 293.

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.