A SUPERB WOOD NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONIUnsigned Japan, early 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A remarkably rustic and boldly executed carving, depicting what appears to be the demon queller Shoki, shown here in a very unusual manner, wearing a turban-like cap, his expression one of satisfaction as he stands next to a large grimacing oni which is clutching Shoki’s long sleeve, the demon queller’s sword still sheathed and tied to his back. The back with two generously excavated himotoshi. A highly unusual netsuke of striking and original design, bearing a superb aji. HEIGHT 6.6 cmCondition: Good condition, appealingly worn, few minor age cracks, tiny nicks here and there, one tiny chip near the himotoshi.Provenance: Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt. Theodor “Teddy” Hahn was a well-known and respected collector of netsuke and other Asian works of art. After spending time in museums to study the early cultures of the world, finding particular interest in their sculptures, he began collecting, remarking, “I somehow knew it would have a profound influence on my life. How right I was. And how happy I have been.” Teddy Hahn was a passionate collector of snail netsuke, arguably building the greatest collection of snail netsuke ever assembled.