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

 Woman with Bucket and Turtle

 Okimono / Netsuke

dimensions:

 1 3/8" high x 1 3/4" wide x 1 3/8" deep

 Collected in Japan circa 1935

19th century stained elephant ivory netsuke depicting a kneeling woman with a large bucket.  A turtle nestles close to her left side. Very nicely carved with robust, rounded form and carefully rendered geometric surface detail on kimono.  Determined facial expression and unbound, long flowing hair.  Turtle typically represents longevity.

SOLD

Golden yellow patina.

Un-signed.

 Because there are no ( himotochi ) holes in bottom, this carving may classify as an okimono, miniature Japanese sculpture.  However, the channel behind the figures right wrist could serve the same purpose as the himotochi, so the figure can still be classified as netsuke.  

Very Good Condition.  Two hairline cracks, one across bottom terminating between the feet, and another on the right sleeve.  Cracks are well integrated into the carving's design, following the natural grain of the ivory, and do not detract from the beauty of the piece.

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