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

Japanese Antique Ivory Netsuke

Man Wrestling Badger

 19th century AD

SOLD

dimensions:

1 1/8" high x 1 1/2" long x 1 1/8" wide

Unusual 19th century  ivory Netsuke depicting a man wrestling with or capturing a mythological creature, probably a badger.   Man is barefoot, and wears a kimono decorated with organic linear designs.  He is also wearing a small cap with a pleated edge resembling a bonnet.  Facial features include enlarged ear-lobes, representative of longevity and wisdom.  

 Figure appears to be casting a net, or possibly a large woven hat over the badger's back, giving a first impression that the animal could be a turtle. Closer inspection reveals the distinctive ears, paws, and tail of a badger.   One hand grasps the creature by the tail, and the other at the base of the neck. The object over the badger's back has a cross-hatched surface texture that resembles the texture of the pleated skirt of the kimono on the figure.  The scene is most likely a direct reference to a Japanese folk story.

The badger is accredited in Japanese folklore with 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".  The netsuke most likely portrays a Tanuki (raccoon dog or badger), but  Kitsune (Foxes) are accredited with similar powers. 

Un-signed

Excellent Condition.

Carving is simple but expressive.  

  Dark pigment on eyes and eye brows.  

Mellow, translucent patina.

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