Unsigned
Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

The god of war Kan’u is leaning against a large rock, stroking his long beard, and holding his halberd by his side. His facial hair and the surface of his robe are finely engraved and inked for texture. The back shows an attractive yellow color and two himotoshi, with a third himotoshi to the underside.

HEIGHT 5.6 cm

Condition: Good condition with some wear, minor nicks, and light scratches. Fine patina.
Provenance: French private collection.

Literature comparison:
Though slightly smaller in size, this netsuke bears all the features of the well-known models of Kan’u from the 18th century, as for example in Sydney L. Moss Ltd. (2004) Outside the Box, pp. 26-27, no. 8. The addition of the rock is quite unusual.

Auction comparison:
For a related figure of Kan’u, larger in size and without the rock, see Zacke, Fine Netsuke & Sagemono, 25 September 2020, Vienna, lot 26 (sold for 7,584 EUR).

This item contains or is made from elephant ivory and is subject to CITES when exporting outside the EU. It is typically not possible to export such items outside of the EU, including to the UK. Please note that in compliance with EU regulation effective January 19th, 2022, all items carved from elephant ivory before 1947 must carry a legal trade permit issued by the Austrian ministry of trade, or any other appropriate authority within the European Union. For this reason, any sale of such item can only be concluded after such permit has been granted. All payments made prior to the issuance of the respective permit will be held in escrow until the application for the permit has been approved. Please note that according to EU regulation it may take up to 3 months until the permit has been granted. In case the permit is declined, or not granted after 3 months, the payment will be returned to the client immediately.