AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A GRIM SHISHI WITH BALLIvory netsukeJapan, Kyoto, Edo period (1615-1868), late 18th centuryA very vigorously crafted shishi, heavily muscled and with a hefty head, a curly mane and an opened mouth with a small, loose ball inside. Its snout is crafted in the form of a reishi mushroom, its eyes are close set and its facial expression appears like it is laughing. All four paws, carved in an expressive manner, are clasping a smooth ball. Large hollowed out himotoshi to place the knot on the underside and another through the side. Deep yellow patina.Dimensions: HEIGHT 4.5 CMCondition: Very good condition with a beautiful yellow patinaProvenance: French private collectionComparative auction result: For a similar Kyoto school shishi see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, London, 16 May 2013, lot 2.