Deer Antler Netsuke. Double-sided Okame And Oni. Japan, 19th Century.

This is a rare double-sided netsuke. Two No masks are represented in miniature, Okame and a demon (Oni); they are carved separately in deer antler and assembled by tenons, leaving a space in the middle for the suspension cord to pass through. The carving is of very good quality and announces one of the best artists of one of the schools having used this indigenous material. The porous channels of the material inside add an additional subtle charm to this small sculpture, indeed we have here a striking effect between the rusticity of the wild material sublimated by the perfect finish of human know-how. Indeed the two sculptures are very beautiful. As much Okame is graceful and peaceful, as much the demon is violent and tormented. We considered that these could be the 2 faces of Hannya, "the jealous woman", the peaceful young girl who in a fit of violent jealousy turns into a demon. Japan 19th century. Good condition, no repairs, original patina. No signature.
36mm