Carved Ivory Netsuke Signed "okakoto," Depicting A Hungry Wolf, Japan, Kyoto, Edo Period, Late 18th Century

Rarecarved ivory netsuke signed "Okakoto"* depicting a gaunt and starving, with its paw resting on a bone; Okakoto’s signature in a cartouche below; from Japan, Kyoto school, Edo period, late 18th century.

This netsuke is in good condition and of exceptional quality.

* Yamaguchi Okakoto, a student and younger brother of Yamaguchi Okatomo, was a brilliant sculptor who excelled at depicting animals. His works are significantly rarer than those of other members of the Kyoto School. This netsuke is entirely in keeping with the artistic style of that school. A netsuke signed by Okakoto is housed at the British Museum in London. This sculptor’s works are highly sought after at auctions.

Please note: minimal signs of age, see photos.

Carved ivory specimen, predating July 1, 1947, and therefore compliant with EC Regulation 338/97 of December 9, 1996  Art. 2-Wmc.

The netsuke is a traditional Japanese garment accessory used tohold sagemono (literally “suspended objects”).In fact, since the kimono has no pockets, various everyday items are carried in small boxes called sagemono. These items are suspended from their owner’s obi by a cord.

• Height 3.6 cm
• Length 4.5 cm / thickness approx. 2 cm
• G20 72
• All photos are available at:
  www.antiques-delaval.com