We're pleased to present our final Fine Netsuke & Sagemono Auction of the year.

The sale opens with a distinguished group of fine inro, representing a wide range of materials, lacquer techniques, and artistic styles. Among these, a particular highlight—and one of the most significant works to appear in our rooms in recent years—is the complete inrō set by Ogawa Haritsu, illustrating The Twelve Months. First published in 1928 (F. M. Jonas – Netsuke), this exceptional set now appears on the market for the first time (lot 11).

The inrō are followed by an excellent selection of sagemono, including notable examples by the esteemed artist Hasegawa Ikko (lots 68–73).

From lot 74 to the conclusion of the sale, the focus turns to fine netsuke, encompassing a rich variety of materials, styles, and schools. The 18th century is particularly well represented, with outstanding examples such as the tall drummer (lot 84), the unusual two tanuki (lot 85), the crouching ronin (lot 95), the fox with two tama (lot 97, illustrated on the back cover), and the large and impressive wood netsuke of a tiger (lot 107).

The Osaka school is beautifully represented by a superb group of works, including works by Hidemasa, Ohara Mitsuhiro, an important ivory netsuke of two rats by Kaigyokusai Masatsugu (the cover piece, lot 150), and a masterfully carved ivory netsuke of an eagle by Ikku (lot 151) carved in the style of Kaigyokusai.

The Nagoya, Tokyo, and Asakusa schools are likewise well represented, with works by renowned masters such as Suzuki Tokoku, Ozaki Kokusai, Shibata Zeshin, and the Sō-school carvers Sōko and Sōsui.

Notable Provenances

Many pieces in the sale are distinguished by their notable provenance, originating from the collections of W. L. Behrens, H. Seymour Trower, M. T. Hindson, Anne Hull Grundy, Harry Geoffrey Beasley, Hayashi Tadamasa, Raymond & Frances Bushell, Marcel Lorber, Alan & Simone Hartman, Bluette H. Kirchoff, Gabor Wilhelm, E. A. Wrangham, William Cleverley Alexander, Julius & Arlette Katchen, Ted Adameck, Philip & Nancy Kotler, Virginia Atchley, June Schuerch, and Joseph & Elena Kurstin, among many others.

We invite collectors and enthusiasts alike to explore this exceptional offering and to share in the appreciation of these remarkable works of art. 

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