AN INLAID WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECLINING ONI AT SETSUBUNUnsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A finely carved and darkly stained wood netsuke of a terrified demon sprawling on the ground, attempting to shield itself from being pelted by beans, three of which have hit him, inlaid in bone. The oni’s face is well detailed with dark-inlaid eyes below raised brows, the horns poking through the neatly incised curled hair, the mouth wide open in an agonized scream revealing tongue and teeth. The demon is wearing an incised lower garment, similarly detailed shin guards, and a shawl tied around his waist and shoulder, a buckle in front is inlaid with stag antler petals encircling a coral bead. Himotoshi to the side of the lower garment and the right leg.LENGTH 5.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Provenance: Galerie Yamato, Paris, 2004. French private collection, acquired from the above.A classic subject, interpreted here in an unusual way.The Setsubun festival is celebrated during the first day of spring and includes the rite of oni-yarai or mame-maki, where roasted beans are thrown at oni to rid the coming year of any demons and disease-bringing spirits.