Until 1st Jan, 2025
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MASANAO: AN UNUSUAL WOOD NETSUKE OF TOADS ON A WARAJI
LOT 118 - NE1124
By a member of the Masanao family, signed Masanao 正直
Japan, Yamada, Ise province, mid to late 19th century
An unusual variation of the classic toad on sandal subject by the Masanao family, the two confronting toads depicted in a somewhat stylized, animated manner, yet still retaining the idiosyncratic hallmarks of the Masanao family. The warty skin of each amphibian is achieved by large, bulging warts which smoothen along the belly, the eyes are inlaid in polished black wood. The disintegrating sandal realistically rendered with different braids to delineate the strap from the sole. Natural himotoshi and signed within a raised oval reserve MASANAO.
LENGTH 4.8 cm
Condition: Very good condition with minor surface wear.
The word ‘toad’ (Kaeru) is pronounced the same as the verb ‘return home’ (Kaeru). During the Edo period the movement of ordinary people was strongly controlled. Pilgrimage was one of the few exceptions where the average person was allowed to leave their home and see other parts of the country. The Ise Jingu shrine is an important place in the Shinto religion and was a popular pilgrimage site. The toad on a sandal netsuke made a perfect souvenir for a visitor to remember the long journey they had completed.
Auction comparison:
Compare a closely related wood netsuke of a baby and large toad on a straw sandal, by Masanao, 19th century, 5.4 cm, at Christie’s, Arts of Asia, 29 March 2023, New York, lot 23 (sold for USD 5,292).
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