Late 19th century Japanese ivory cigarette holder carved in low relief with Ebisu and Daikoku - two of the seven Japanese Gods of Good Fortune. They are shown with their usual attributes - Ebisu with fish and basket, and Daikoku with mallet and bag. The decoration is essentially a wish for prosperity. Wonderful quality carving, beautiful patina on the surface, old age lines, no cracks. Signed KOGYOKU on the back - for information about the artist see p. 638 of NETSUKE & INRO ARTISTS AND HOW ...click for details
Late 19th century rosewood game counter with 8 ivory tabs carved with monkeys in different attitudes. Excellent quality carving - see hairwork and faces. Comes with original kiriwood box (loss of 2 planks on the bottom of the cover), extensively inscribed on the cover and one side. Counters like this one were used to keep score in the game of whist, and they became a popular export item to the West in the late 19th century. In excellent condition, tabs lift perfectly, no cracks, losses or repair ...click for details
