NETSUKE: JAPANESE-LANTERNS.
Japan. Edo period. 19th century.

Boxwood; delicately carved; engraved and darkly accentuated leaf scar; the red fruit inlaid red glass. Two Japanese-lanterns (Physalis alkekengi) with bent stem. Three ants made of silver and other metals crawling over the fruit. The signature "Gambun" on the tortoise shell panel reveals the artist that made the insects. .4cm. Condition A/B.

Provenance:
-Old collection label 88.

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.