Japanese Kyoto School Ivory Netsuke of ‘Fukura Suzume’

A Japanese Kyoto School Ivory Netsuke of ‘Fukura Suzume’ a Stylised Sparrow of Typical Solid Stout form the Bulging eyes inlaid with polished horn looking directly ahead with its tail erect and sturdy wings outstretched 
The Himotoshi with wear
Old smooth creamy worn rich patina with age cracks a darker tone to the underside
Signed in elliptical reserve ‘Masano’
Late 18th Century

Size: 3.5cm high, 6cm wide, 4.5cm deep - 1¼ ins high, 2¼ ins wide, 1¾ ins deep


 
A Japanese Kyoto School Ivory Netsuke of ‘Fukura Suzume’ a Stylised Sparrow of Typical Solid Stout form the Bulging eyes inlaid with polished horn looking directly ahead with its tail erect and sturdy wings outstretched 
The Himotoshi with wear
Old smooth creamy worn rich patina with age cracks a darker tone to the underside
Signed in elliptical reserve ‘Masano’
Late 18th Century

Size: 3.5cm high, 6cm wide, 4.5cm deep - 1¼ ins high, 2¼ ins wide, 1¾ ins deep
 
This well carved solid model of a bird represents the legend of the ‘tongue-cut-sparrow’ and its significance as a Japanese symbol of good fortune rests on the homonym ‘Fuku’ which means both good luck and to swell up.
Ex Private European Private collection

cf: Fairley collection no. 703

Japanese Kyoto School Ivory Netsuke of ‘Fukura Suzume’

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