Netsuke carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century. Netsuke represents a doll of Daruma (founder of Zen Buddhism) enveloped in monastic robe, and his eyes can pop in and out. Perfectly captured facial expression, facial hair and mandarin duck decoration on his robe beautifully incised and etched with ink. It appears that the artist etched a different design on every piece of this model of his - see the other Darumas by Ryoshu on my site...

Width: 4.8 cm (1.9 in) Height: 2.9 cm (1.2 in) Depth: 2.4 cm (0.9 in) Japanese carved netsuke of people in a treehouse; natural material; two samurai being served food; signed Ryumin on the base; good condition

Length: 3.7 cm (1.5 in)
Height: 2.9 cm (1.2 in)
Depth: 2.4 cm (1 in)

Japanese carved netsuke of a dog chewing on a sandal; natural material; inlaid horn eyes; some age lines present; good condition

Japanese obidome (sash ornament) with polished moss agate stone, its natural pattern perfectly resembling a single tree with well defined branches. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Amazing natural picture, excellent finish and patina. Metal fitting on the back with two loops for an obi cord. Height 1 4/4 inches.

Height: 4.8 cm (1.9 in)
Width: 4.3 cm (1.7 in)
Depth: 2.5 cm (1 in)

Japanese netsuke of a crying child in a seated position with a spilled bowl; natural material; signed on the base; good condition

Length: 4.4 cm (1.7 in)
Height: 3.3 cm (1.4 in)
Depth: 2.5 cm (1 in)

Japanese netsuke of a young boy in the crawling position, his hands clasped; natural material; signed under the arm; good condition

1940's Japanese Shibayama Wood Carved Shishi Netsuke Signed

It is 1.05 inches (2.6 cm) tall by 1.3 inches (3.5 cm) wide. It is 9.9 gram.

It has surface wears and scratches (as seen in the photos).

Our Guarantee: We stand behind all of the items that we sell. That is to say, if you purchase an item from us and are unhappy with it for any reason, return it for a 100% refund of the amount you originally paid...

Book NETSUKE: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY BASED ON THE M. T. HINDSON COLLECTION by Neal Davey, Faber & Faber, London, 1974. Hardcover, dust jacket, 564 pages, 12”x8.25”. Absolutely essential reference book with thorough descriptions and black and white photos of 1322 netsuke with some 300 actual signatures. Most valuable part is an index of 3425 known netsuke artists with their names in Japanese characters, type of work, time period and preferred medium...

Sotheby’s sale catalog FINE NETSUKE INRO AND LACQUER FROM THE ESTATE OF MADELYN HICKMOTT that took place in New York on February 8, 1989. Soft covers, 400 lots illustrated (some color, some black and white). Excellent reference book.

Lot of 9 Sotheby’s catalogs from 1978 to 1983 relating to netsuke. Very good reference material, all in decent vintage condition, black and white photos, most of catalogs with prices realized.

Hardcover book “THE BAUR COLLECTION: NETSUKE” by Marie-Therese Coullery and Martin Newstead in perfect condition. This book is number 716 out of limited numbered edition of 1500. One of the world's most important collections of netsuke is richly illustrated in this definitive volume. Arranged by subject with general subject description followed by exact description and photo of each netsuke...

Netsuke representing a theatrical mask of Hyottoko - a perplexed peasant - carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century (see p. 886 of NETSUKE & INRO ARTISTS AND HOW TO READ THEIR SIGNATURES by George Lazarnick). Wonderful expressive face, black and red ink highlights, beautiful finish to the surface. Signed RYOSHU on the back. Height 1 inch.

Netsuke carved by Ryoshu (born in 1912) - one of the best Japanese netsuke carvers of the 20th century. Netsuke represents a doll of Daruma (founder of Zen Buddhism) enveloped in monastic robe, and his eyes can pop in and out. Perfectly captured facial expression, beautifully incised and etched facial hair and 3 flowering chrysanthemums on his robe. It appears that the artist etched a different design on every piece of this model of his - see the other Darumas by Ryoshu on my site...

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead of dark blue glass with flower shaped swirls of tan and white. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Very well made, in perfect condition. Height 9/16 inches.

Unusual Japanese obidome (sash ornament) made out of bamboo stem and carved in low relief with blooming prunus branch. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Wonderful and clever use of material, beautiful finish and patina. Two metal fittings on the back for an obi cord. Signed EIKO and inscribed in hiragana EZO MURASAKI. Length 2 inches.

Japanese obidome (sash ornament) with polished agate stone, its natural pattern perfectly resembling scholarly landscape with hills covered in lush vegetation and a wide bay beyond them. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, it is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Amazing natural picture, excellent finish and patina. Metal fitting on the back with two loops for an obi cord. Length 1 9/16 inches.

Japanese Ojime carved out of natural Fruit Seed, 3/4" round with two(2) large holes for rope, tightening to Netsuke before Inro Medicine case and carrying on their belt. The condition is good..

1930's Japanese Gilt Silver Chrysanthemum Motif Water Dropper Suiteki

It is 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) wide by 2.4 inches (6 cm) in length. It weighs 46 gram.

It is tarnished and has loss of gilding and surface wears and scratches (as seen in the photos).

Our Guarantee: We stand behind all of the items that we sell. That is to say, if you purchase an item from us and are unhappy with it for any reason, return it for a 100% refund of the amount you originally paid...

Old (1930's ) Japanese Wood Carved Netsuke with Erotica Couple Signed

It is 0.78 inch (2 cm) tall by 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wide. It is 8.9 gram.

It has chips and surface wears and scratches (as seen in the photos).

Our Guarantee: We stand behind all of the items that we sell. That is to say, if you purchase an item from us and are unhappy with it for any reason, return it for a 100% refund of the amount you originally paid...

Early Showa (1930s) Japanese obidome (sash ornament) of round shape with engraved flowers. Obidome is worn on an obi cord that holds the obi sash together, is the only type of jewelry worn by Japanese women on formal occasions, and could serve as netsuke as well. Very nice work, beautiful patina. Metal fitting on the back with two loops for an obi cord. Diameter 1 1/8 inches.

Netsuke of standing Jurojin holding a turtle on his hand. Jurojin is one of 7 Gods of Good Fortune, that of longevity, and the turtle - one of his usual companions - is also associated with longevity. The netsuke is essentially a wish for long life. Very nicely carved, great level of detail and perfectly captured facial expression, expert staining. Signed SEIGYOKU on the back - for a discussion of the artist see CONTEMPORARY NETSUKE by Miriam Kinsey, p. 226. Height 1 7/8 inches.

Japanese glass ojime in a form of tombodama bead with white core and two birds on a long branch with leaves and flowers. Tombodama can be translated as “dragonfly ball” and the name is thought to come about because when the molten glass is applied to the core bead it resembles a dragonfly’s eye. Superbly made piece - see the individual petals and leaves, in perfect condition. Height 3/4 inches.

Netsuke of a Chokwaro sennin horse appearing out of a gourd. According to a Japanese legend Chokwaro sennin (Chinese sage) could summon the magic horse out of his gourd to be transported wherever he wanted. Clever design, excellent carving with great detailing - see its face, mane and front legs with delicately carved hooves. Beautiful flawless material, excellent quality etching with black ink, wonderful patina...

An amusing tonkotsu, a container for tobacco, skillfully carved in wood as a man emerging from a basket! His clasped hands pierced to allow a suspension cord, not present. The eyes are inlaid and the base has a mother of pearl signature tablet.

A 20th century production but hand carved.

Approximately 12.5 cm high...

Marine material netsuke of an owl sitting on a tree stump with new branches and leaves. Excellent quality detailed carving, wonderful face with somewhat puzzled expression, beautiful depiction of differentiated feathers, pleasant patina, eyes are inlaid with black horn. Signed MASAMITSU on the bottom, wonderful netsuke by a master carver. Height 1 5/8 inches.

Japanese Edo Staghorn and leather Tobacco pouch and Pipe case with lacquered ojime bead. The pouch has a censor menuki type clasp . The leather appears warn but the stitching is tight and the leather supple and useable. No pipe but most Kiseru pipes will fit . Horn l 7.75" the pouch 4.5" by 3"

Height: 3.7 cm (1.4 in)
Width: 1.5 cm (0.6 in)

Japanese netsuke of entwined gourds; probably marine natural material; fine seal carved to the base; signed Shuzan; good condition

Height: 4.8 cm (1.9 in)
Width: 2.9 cm (1.2 in)
Depth: 1.3 cm (0.6 in)

Japanese netsuke of a priest; natural material; nice patina and good condition

Length: 4.2 cm (1.7 in)
Height: 1.8 cm (0.7 in)
Depth: 3.2 cm (1.2 in)

Japanese mask netsuke of a fox; natural material; stained and signed

1920s small celluloid netsuke of theatrical mask of Okina (old man) used in Sambaso dance. Very nice example of its type. Height 1 1/8 inches.

This an excellent hand-carved contemporary netsuke of a standing Hotei carrying his bag over his right shoulder. In his left hand he holds a Ruyi Scepter. Signed Shodo on a rectangular reserve on the bottom of the netsuke. SHODO, the Go name of Hiroshi Asaoka, born in Tokyo in the year 1923 was a master of intricate detailed carvings, and quiet, serene designs, who studied under Shomin. Netsuke measures 1.40 inches (3.5cm) in diameter, and 2.0 inches (5.ocm) tall...

DESCRIPTION: An unusual netsuke featuring an abalone shell crafted from wavy burl wood with an ivory lobster perched on top. The lobster’s curled antennas are made of metal, and on the underside of the shell a signature is etched into the wood. Early to mid 20th century in very good condition. DIMENSIONS: 1 ¾” long (4.5 cm).

This is a contemporary, excellently carved carved polychrome netsuke depicting a standing Jurojin, one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, who is known as the god of longevity. He holds a staff with a sutra hanging from it on his right hand, and a fan on his left hand. Intricate detail and colors characterize this wonderful miniature sculpture carved by Akihiro Zusuki, a netsuke artist currently living in Hokkaido, Japan. He is known for making extremely original designs using classical elemen...

Finely crafted, delicately carved Japanese wood netsuke, depicting Toad w/ toad on its back, early to mid 20th century period. Size; Dimensions are 1.5"L x 1"H. Condition Report; Good condition.

Fine Japanese carved rosewood netsuke figure., depicting a hand holding a monkey, signed Hashi, early 20th century period. Size; Height of carving is 1 7/8 inches. Condition Report, Excellent condition.

Height: 3.3 cm (1.6 in)
Width: 5.8 cm (2.6 in)

Japanese ivory okimono of three wise monkeys; signed; circa early 20th century

Japanese Composite Inro, having gilt mon decoration and a double gourd form netsuke, together with a small Japanese bronze mirror. Length of mirror 5 5/8 inches.

A set of a tobacco container carved in the form of either two sages or eccentric spirits. The container is carved in the form where the figure is sitting inside a jar while the other is has the distinct eccentric smile seen in images in sages. The piece contains a signature which reads Nissho Age:20th century Size: The container: Height: 3.5" Diameter: 2.1" The figure: Length: 1.75" Width: 1.5" Height: 8"

These two well carved and polished netsuke are early or mid - 20th century products. The tall one is a bare footed older man holding a long staff. It is 3 ¾” high, 1 ¼” wide and three quarters of an inch thick. The artist’s signature, “Hajime,” is carved on the bottom. The shorter one is an old man holding a small Mokugyo wood drum which is often used in Buddhist chanting. It is 3” high, 1 ¼” wide and 1” thick. The artist’s signature, “Issen,” is on the bottom. Bo...

Japanese carved boxwood netsuke, depicting a frog sitting on a leaf in form of a scoop, inlaid eyes, intricately and delicately carved, Signed on the side by the artist. Size: This item has length of 3.5 inches. Condition Report: Excellent condition.

Japanese carved boxwood netsuke, depicting a mouse in sitting position holding a pumpkin, inlaid eyes, intricately and delicately carved. Size: This item has length of 2 1/4 inches. Condition Report: Excellent condition.

This mid 20th century carved wood netsuke is 1 7/8” high, 1 ½” wide and 7/8” thick. It depicts two playful mice resting on a small flat basket. The mouse on the top is chewing the tail of the other one and the one on the bottom is fighting back by biting the other one’s back leg. It is signed but is not legible. The carving is very nice and it is in great condition.

This is a FINELY CARVED IVORY TWO HORSES NETSUKE. Two HORSES testing each other.... Signed on the bottom. Circa 1950 perhaps a little earlier

This is a Beautifully Hand Carved IVORY HEN NETSUKE from a Virginia, USA Estate. The size is 2 3/8" X 1 3/8". Signed on the bottom (see jpg). EXCELLENT Condition ca. 1950

A Japanese Netsuke hand carved from Tsugenoki (Boxwood). Depicting a moon viewing rabbit, its paws, eyes and ears are very well detailed. Artist signed at the base.

Age: Mid Century

Dimensions: 2" Long by 1 1/4" Wide by 1 7/16" High

This is an excellent and intricately carved very charming netsuke, made by our own Pennsylvania native, David Carlin. He describes it as a "Clown seated on a ball with his left hand holding his forehead and the right arm resting in the clown’s lap. The eyes are inlaid in amber and the clown has a star in his right cheek matching the stars on the sleeves and bottom hem of his sweater. The clown also has a shooting star on the back of the sweater.” The monogram “DC” is carved into the ...

This is one of the original works of Tokisada Nakamura, who signs as Masatoshi in this miniature sculpture that depicts Oni, the little demon, crossing a river in the company of a Man and a Woman. The Oni is carrying a skull ended mast, and he is holding on to the woman's arm. The man is carrying, over his left shoulder, a large Mokugyo and a couple of giant lotus flowers. He is picking up his robe to prevent it from getting wet. The base where the three chracters stand has a hole in the mid...

This is a wonderfully hand-carved netsuke depicting Bakemono "Unreal Thing or Goblin" with a Rokuro-Kubi (whirling Neck), in other words a Goblin creature with an expanding neck like the spring of 'Jack-in-the-box", that, according to legend, twists its head around and leers in the faces of sleepers. The creature is standing on one foot and appears to be praying. Amber Double inlaid eyes. Unsigned, but attributed to the 20th century Japanese artist Koraku. Netsuke measures 1.12 inches (2.8cm...

This is an excellent hand-carved Japanese Netsuke depicting Shoki, the demon queller, in his usual standing position, with his sword drawn. Although he appears to have captured one of them, the other Oni is playfully standing on his shoulders while pulling one of Shoki's ears. Outstanding detail and form symmetry characterizes this miniature sculpture. Very nice contrast between the patinated robes and the highly polished Oni's and Shoki's protruding body parts. Signed Hideyuki, on the bac...

This is a contemporary, excellently carved polychrome netsuke depicting a standing Goddess Benzaiten, also know as Benten, the only female member of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, who is known as the Water Goddess, and Patroness of Music, Poetry and Learning. She is holding a Chrysanthemum flower on her right hand. Intricate detail and vivid colors characterize this wonderful miniature sculpture carved by Akihiro Zusuki, a netsuke artist currently living in Hokkaido, Japan. He is known for m...

This is a wonderful Netsuke Set depicting Kiyohime, the Dragon Witch, holding the Dojoji Bell, right next to her beloved Anchin. According to Japanese legend, Kiyohime the daughter of an innkeeper, fell in love with the pilgrim Anchin, but was rejected by him. The enraged Kiyohime turned herself into a dragon witch who went to the Dojoji temple to look for Anchin who had hidden under a huge bell. In this set, Anchin can be inserted into the bell, where he fits exactly, Photo number 3. This won...

Finely carved Japanese Netsuke Depicting a Kappa laying on top of a Shell. According to Karl Schwartz, in his book 'Netsuke Subjects', Kappa is a Goblin who lived in rivers, having a body resembling a frog with a carapace like a turtle. Its head is similar to that of a Monkey with a cavity on top which must always be filled with water. It is mischievous and is often in love with young girls. This wonderful miniature sculpture was carved by Tadami Uno Yukimasa, who was born in 1914 in Gifu C...

A fine Carved Ivory Netsuke of a man carrying the moon on his back signed Giyoku Seki a masterful piece. Measuring 2.5 inches 5.5 centimeters.

A beautiful old Japanese netsuke with mouse play on the top of a drunk cat, very elaborate and cute. In excellent condition L:7/8" Signed. Sold to Pleasanton

A beautiful miniature Japanese Old Ivory Netsuke Frog Sumo Wrestler. In it's excellent condition H: 1-1/8" Signed

This mid 20th century carved hardwood netsuke of a bird is 3 ¼” high, 1 ¼” wide and 1” thick. It depicts a bird resting on rock. The artist signature is on the bottom. It is in great condition.

This very well carved ivory erotic netsuke of two couples is 2 5/8” long, 1” high and a little less than one inch thick. It is dated to the 1960’s. There is a carver’s signature on the bottom.

This small carved ivory erotic netsuke of two men is 2” long, 1” high and 1’ thick. It is dated 1960’s. There is a red lacquer inlayed signature on the bottom. It is very well carved and in great condition.

This mid 20th century carved ivory netsuke of a sumo wrestler is 2 ¼” high, 1 ¼” wide and 1” thick. It depicts a sumo wrestler dressed the traditional outfit staring straight ahead, ready to fight. The expression on his face is just great. The signature “Yoshido” is on his left foot. Aside of some color that has been rubbed off, it is in excellent condition.

This mid 20th century carved ivory netsuke of a monkey is 1 ½” high, 1 5/8” wide and 1 ¼” thick. It depicts a sitting monkey holding a fruit branch. The signature is on the bottom of his back leg. It is in great condition.