A very fine ivory netsuke by Masanao of Kyoto, carved as an acolyte, or other figure, seated on the back of a recumbent water buffalo, 6cm long, signed in a wavy reserve beneath the right haunch, Masanao. Edo Period, late 18th Century.Provenance: The Property of a Lady. From a Private Collection, acquired by her Great-Grandfather, and all collected prior to his death in 1944. This rare subject for Masanao is thought to be both the only example of its type, and unrecorded hitherto. For another example of Masanao's late 18th Century water buffalos, compare Lot 119 from the Harriet Szechenyi sale at Bonham's on 8th November, 2011.PLEASE NOTE: THIS ITEM CONTAINS OR IS MADE OF IVORY. Buyers must be aware that regulations of several countries, including USA, prohibit the import of ivory, or any goods containing ivory. Ewbank's advise prospective purchasers who intend to ship this lot to another country that they must familiarise themselves with the relevant import/export regulations prior to bidding. They are responsible for their shipping arrangements, and the onus is therefore on them to arrange their own shipping .AMENDED CONDITION REPORT. Please note that there are some areas of deterioration. These include: prominent age cracks across the left and right sides of the animal's body. These extend round to the rear and across the tail. The right horn has some detail that is either repaired, or chipped and cracked. The seated acolyte is either repaired, or the carving associated. There are 13 images online to assist, but please inform Ewbank's if further assistance is required.