NETSUKE: HAKUTAKU.
Japan. Edo period. 19th c.

Powerful Hakutaku sitting on a large; oval base; head bowed down open-mouthed over its impressive paws. This rare unicorn has differing features compared with the highest-ranking Kirin which is mute; has hooves not paws; and barely touches the ground to avoid hurting even the tiniest creature. The Hakutaku can speak and discern anything evil; creatures or thoughts; and pounces on them; destroying them. Which is what our Hakutaku appears to have just done; with an exclamation or comment; judging by its open mouth. A long; almost straight mane surrounds its shoulders. Its tail is composed of whirls of curls and sideward whisps of hair; finely engraved; and stained dark. Ivory. Boldly carved; engraved; with dark staining; in parts softly polished from long wear. Behrens; no. 1378; owned another such very rare Hakutaku; as did Hindson a comparable one; Cat. no. 1002. Height 5.3cm; width 5.6cm. Condition A/B. Age cracks.

Provenance:
- Collection Behrens; no. 1401. ill. plate XXVI.
- Collection Brockhaus.
- Collection Isobel Sharpe.

Literature:
-H. Joly: Legend in Japanese Art; p. 278.

Please note that objects made of ivory; rhinoceros horn and turtle shell; due to Cites regulations can only be sold within the European Community. At present the export in third countries is prohibited.
Art trade; Van Ham.