AN EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF TAIRA NO TADAMORI CAPTURING THE OIL THIEF Japan, Edo (Tokyo), first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Dynamically and powerfully crafted, depicting Taira no Tadamori grabbing the oil thief Abura Bozu from behind. Tadamori is full of resolve and unrelenting, while Abura Bozo’s expression is surprised, clutching his hat and having dropped his vessel, its spilled contents carved to the underside. Unbeknownst to Tadamori the man is nothing but a poor old soul, stealing a tiny bit of oil from the many lamps in the forest near the Yasaka no Yashioro temple. Generously excavated himotoshi through the back.

HEIGHT 4 cm

Condition: Good condition with minor surface wear and a small loss to one foot.
Provenance: French private collection.