NAOYUKI: AN EXQUISITE MINIATURE WOOD NETSUKE OF A NIO CUTTING THROUGH A GIGANTIC GOURDBy Naoyuki, signed Naoyuki 直雪 and kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A minutely carved Nio, measuring only 0.7 cm, with remarkably well-carved features is shown testing his strength by cutting through a gigantic gourd with a saw. The well-toned wood of an attractive color, a small Chinese table carved next to the gourd. One himotoshi through the underside, the other going through under the table. Signed NAOYUKI with kakihan.HEIGHT 2.4 cmCondition: Excellent condition, minor wear.