KAGETOSHI: A VERY FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A ROSEI’S DREAM By Kagetoshi, signed Kagetoshi Japan, Kyoto, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Depicting a palace with several stories, architectural elements, pine trees and pavilions, all upon a rocky cliff. Minutely carved attendants are scattered all over, conversing in groups, walking up the stairs and even within the courtyard. The setting appears like from a dream and the netsuke is certainly an allusion to Rosei’s dream, a popular subject by Kagetoshi who shows off his superior workmanship in sukashi-bori (openwork technique) in this incredibly detailed composition. The underside shows a tall pagoda, pine trees and pavilions from afar below a mountainous horizon. Florally rimmed himotoshi and signature within a raised rectangular reserve KAGETOSHI 景利. LENGTH 4 cm Condition: Excellent condition, minor wear and discoloration to ivory. Provenance: European collection. Literature comparison: A similar netsuke by Kagetoshi is in the British museum (Accession number 1945,1017.634). Auction comparison: Another similar ivory netsuke by Kageotoshi of Rosei’s dream sold at Van Ham, Asian Art, 8 December 2016, Cologne, lot 2387.