Antique Japanese Netsuke Oni Playing A Drum, Signed Ozan, Meiji

A finely carved Japanese ivory netsuke depicting an oni seated before a drum, captured in a lively and humorous pose as he strikes the instrument with a pair of drumsticks.

The oni is rendered with a wonderfully expressive face featuring bulging eyes, a furrowed brow and a mischievous grin. The carving displays good attention to detail, from the finely incised hair and loincloth to the engraved decoration of the drum. The eyes are highlighted with dark pigment, adding considerable character to the figure.

The underside incorporates the himotoshi and bears a rectangular signature tablet signed Ozan (王山). Humorous depictions of oni engaged in everyday activities were a popular subject amongst Meiji period netsuke carvers and remain highly sought after by collectors today.

Meiji period, Japan, circa 1880–1900.

Height: 4.1 cm.

Good condition.