Rare Japanese Ivory Netsuke Depicting An Oni — Edo Period, 19th Century

This remarkable Japanese netsuke in carved ivory, dating from the late Edo period (19th century), depicts an Oni, an emblematic demon of Japanese folklore, shown in a crouching, hunched posture. This traditional subject, both powerful and expressive, is particularly sought after by collectors of antique netsuke. The sculpture is distinguished by the quality of its execution: the precise treatment of volumes, the finely modeled musculature, and the intense facial expression testify to a great mastery of the art of Japanese miniature sculpture. The ivory displays a beautiful antique patina, with warm, amber hues, acquired naturally with time and use, confirming its authenticity and age. The base is pierced with two traditional himotoshi (handlebars) and bears an engraved signature, attributable to a sculptor active at the end of the period.