A RARE AND EARLY MARINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A BIZEN MODEL OF HOTEI Unsigned Japan, 17th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Faithfully modelled after a Bizen-ceramic figure of Hotei. The pot-bellied lucky god holds an uchiwa fan in one hand and the cord of his sack in the other. The marine ivory is worn and shows a stunning patina in playful combination with the natural inclusions of the material, creating a unique surface. The underside is hollow, as is usual for ceramic figures, and functions as the natural himotoshi, the other being in the backside. HEIGHT 4.4 cm Condition: The surface is worn with some discoloration to the crevices. A small chip to the underside. Generally, in good condition with a stunning patina. Provenance: Old Zagreb private collection.