MICHAEL WEBB: A VERY RARE BOXWOOD NETSUKE OF A MOLE
By Michael Webb (1934-2009), signed with initials 'MJW'
England, Yorkshire, 1979/1980

Published: Eskenazi Ltd., Japanese Netsuke from Private Collections and Michael Webb Netsuke, London, 1980, p.28, no.67.

A naturalistic model of a plump mole with its body curved slightly to the left in the act of digging. Its graphically large clawed-paws and snout are stained brown and its body is stained black with minutely carved fur. The tiny inlaid eyes make for a spectacular expression. Signature MJW in a polished reserve on the underside and natural himotoshi through the left hind and front leg. Moles are an incredibly rare subject in netsuke art.

LENGTH 5.3 cm

Condition: Excellent condition.
Provenance: Eskenazi Ltd, then collection of Robert S. Huthart.

Michael Webb (1932-2009), formerly director and auctioneer at Sotheby's, carved netsuke as a hobby until 1976. Afterwards he moved to Yorkshire and started mastering the art with the guidanceof Luigi Bandini of Eskenazi Ltd. The present netsuke is a rare and early work of the artist, probably inspired by a mole in his garden, also shown by the superior and naturalistic presentation, particularly in the hairwork and bodily proportions of the animal.

Auction comparison: For a comparable model by Masatoshi see Bonhams, The Bluette H. Kirchhoff Collection of Netsuke and Sagemono, 16 September 2009, New York, lot 2139.