A LARGE AND UNUSUAL WOOD NETSUKE OF DAIKOKU
Unsigned
Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Depicting the god of wealth and patron of the merchants Daikoku, with large earlobes, smiling, wearing his typical hat and holding his mallet up high. The reverse shows a scoop-like structure, the inside partially with remains of old black lacquer and a central bridge where the himotoshi is located. A rustic, old and very functional wood netsuke with worn-down features and a beautiful aji (patina) from many years of use and handling. The shape of the netsuke probably depicts a kind of wall hanging used to dispel oni from temple sites.

HEIGHT 6.2 cm, LENGTH 4.4 cm, WIDTH 3 cm

Condition: Good condition with signs of age and wear. Possibly one very old and worn-down chip to the upper edge of the backside.
Provenance: The Gabor Wilhelm Collection.