An ivory netsuke of a toad


By Seiyodo Gansui, Iwami Province, Edo period (1615-1868), early 19th century Resting on one side of a large reishi fungus, forming a compact composition, the himotoshi passing through the thick stalk beneath and the toad's eyes inlaid in pale translucent horn, the ivory somewhat worn and of a good colour, inscribed in sosho calligraphy with a poem; signed Ka'aigawa Gansui koku. 4.2cm (1 5/8in) wide.