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Japanese Meiji Ivory Okimono Carving Gama Sennin Toad browse these categories for related items... Directory: Antiques:Regional Art:Asian:Japanese:Ivory:Pre 1900: item # 650190 Please refer to our stock # 37C when inquiring.
The Incurable Collector P.O. Box 18460 Rochester, New York 14618 585-734-4494 Guest Book Sold, thank you |
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| A finely carved elephant ivory figure of a Japanese mythological mystic, a sennin, which is derived from Taoisim. In Taoisim, the mystical alliance can be attained by retreating from civilization, living simply and communicating with nature. Mountain mystics from Chinese Taoisim became sennin in Japan, and were believed to inhabit the mountains. This carving depicts a happy sennin, playfully being tugged at his foot by a toad as they dance with merriment. The basket is well carved with delicate handle(all in tact with no repair) filled with wild edibles gathered from the woods. In the hands of the happy spirit, is an intricately carved open work cord attached to a gourd which appears to be in excellent condition and all in tact which is quite remarkable considering the age, c. 1890. Overall, the ivory is in near mint condition. There is one small age crack(I think this is a flaw in the ivory) in the robe near the right leg that is in the fold and not at all noticeable. Also, there is a small break on the leaf near the right foot where there is evidence of glue which has browned from age. Otherwise, there are no other damages or repairs. The grains of the ivory are well defined. The expressive well carved facial expression is filled with joy and happiness, that of a free spirit. The details of the leaf apron dress are well carved and quite detailed. There is also detailing in the robe and hairs on his chest. As the sennin balances on one foot, there is a lot of movement in the piece. The brownish orange spots that appear in the photos, which were probably old glue, have subsequently been removed by washing with a Q-tip, a bit of ivory soap and water, the best way to clean ivory. Measures 5 3/4" tall x 2+" at widest point. Please feel free to ask for more photos if you like. Return privilege, providing item returned in sent condition shortly after having received it and in original packing material and the way it was packaged etc. Postage/insurance extra. New York buyer pays their local county sales tax on item and shipping charges unless valid tax number and resale certificate provided. | ||
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