† MINKO: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT GOATBy Tanaka Juntoku Minko (1735-1816), signed Minko 岷江 with kakihanJapan, Tsu, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A remarkably powerful sculpture with boldly incised strokes, yet still retaining sophisticated detail. The goat is shown in a reclining posture, the large feet with the hallmark chubby hooves are neatly tucked underneath the body for compactness and the large ears and horns are resting against the shoulders and back. The wood bears a rich, deep patina and the eyes are typically inlaid in gilt brass with dark pupils. Natural himotoshi and signed within a polished reserve underneath with some red pigment added TANAKA MINKO – a rather early piece by this legendary netsuke-shi who was mentioned in the Soken Kisho of 1781.LENGTH 4.3 cmCondition: Excellent condition considering age and use, some minor surface wear here and there. Beautiful, dark patina to the exposed areas.Provenance: A noted private collection, USA.Auction comparison: A closely related wood netsuke of a goat by Minko (note also the similar kakihan) was sold at Bonhams, Netsuke from a European Private Collection, 8 May 2016, London, lot 29 (sold for 6,875 GBP).13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer’s premium – only for buyers within the EU.