A RARE 17TH CENTURY DRIFTWOOD NETSUKE OF A LARGE FISH
Unsigned
Japan, 17th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

A netsuke made from natural flattened driftwood in the shape of a large stylized fish. Only the eyes and area around the mouth are carved, the rest has remained as it was found, only altered by centuries of use and handling, giving it a beautiful aji (patina). It is well documented that the earliest netsuke were basically any objects which would be suitable as sagemono, like natural gourds or pieces of wood, etc. The present netsuke belongs to this rare group of the earliest netsuke known to man. An agate ojime is attached to the cord which is attached to the natural himotoshi through the mouth.

LENGTH 16 cm

Condition: Excellent condition worn over centuries of use and handling.
Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.