A finely engraved Japanese ivory manju netsuke depicting Kintaro, a celebrated figure from Japanese folklore, lying on the back of a large buffalo.
The netsuke is signed Ipposai and retains the original cord that connects the two discs.
Kintaro, the legendary child of extraordinary strength, was known as a friend of mountain animals and often played sumo with them. He became famous for wrestling bears and taming wild creatures with his bare hands, earning a place in mythology as a symbol of courage.
Period: Edo, 19th century
Dimensions: 1.8 × 4.6 cm
Condition: Excellent condition