Japanese Netsuke "characters In A Shell With Dragon" Signed Mitsutoshi (kyoto),

apanese ivory netsuke depicting figures in a shell boat with dragon, signed Mitsutoshi (Kyoto), Edo period, 19th century

Japanese netsuke carved in hippopotamus ivory, representing a group of figures seated within a large shell-form boat animated at the front by a finely carved dragon head. The composition includes an elderly bearded figure holding a cup, a standing attendant, and a child musician playing a stringed instrument. The reverse is carved with stylised swirling motifs incorporating the asymmetrical himotoshi.

Signed underneath 光俊 (Mitsutoshi), a carver working in Kyoto during the Edo period. The modelling is well balanced, with expressive faces and natural integration of the figures within the curved shell form. Good patina consistent with age and handling.

Dimensions: 5.3 cm × 3.7 cm × 2.5 cm
Japan, Edo period, 19th century

Material: Hippopotamus ivory

This item complies with EU regulations concerning worked ivory produced prior to 1947. It is classified under CITES Appendix II / Annex B and is sold with transfer documentation allowing legal commercial circulation within the European Union.