The William Oates Jeffery Collection - Netsuke, Ojime, and other Ivory Objects

 Badger with Belly Drum

dimensions:

 1 1/8" high x 7/8" wide x 1 5/8" long

Collected in Japan

  circa 1935

18th century elephant Ivory Netsuke depicting a badger with a huge belly.  The badger is accredited in Japanese folklore to possess supernatural powers, among them the ability to change form, and to beat its belly with its forepaws like a drum in order to fool passing travelers. This ability is referred to as the "Tanuki-no-hara Tsutsumi".

SOLD

Simple form and dark color indicate age, probably pre-1800.  Two holes in bottom with incised circular outline.  Unsigned.

Very Good Condition.  Lovely golden patina with scattered darker spotting.  Minor wear from use around holes.

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