MASASHIGE: A WOOD NETSUKE OF AN OX HERDER By Masahige, signed Masahige Japan, Ise-Yamada, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The ushidoji (ox-boy) playing his flute is seated next to an ox. The content facial features are very finely carved, while the ox' fur pattern is very precise. The ox also has a nose ring with a rope attached to it. Himotoshi on the underside between the delicately executed ox legs and signed MASASHIGE on one of the hind legs. WIDTH 4.1 cm Condition: Good, complete condition; one tiny dent to the side of the face of the boy. Provenance: British private collection.