NETSUKE: SHISHI.
Japan. Edo period. Ca. 1800.

Shishi in typical Siniu pose as a seal netsuke. The lion-dog; bare-bodied without fur and long-necked like a Siniu; is sitting on a flat oval plinth with a seal; its head stretched up and turned back; mouth slightly open baring its fangs. The tip of its short tail reaches up to the small Shishi curls growing one row each side along its spine up to the short curly mane. Small flames blaze from the joints. Ivory; finely carved and engraved with darker details and bearing a wonderfully shiny; rich golden-yellow; in parts amber-colored; natural patina. The seal may be read "b? (or k鬽uru); which means to "receive" or "enjoy". H.6;6cm. Condition A.

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.