MIWA: A CHARMING WOOD NETSUKE OF DAIKOKU EMERGING FROM A RICE BALEBy Miwa, signed Miwa 三輪 with kakihanJapan, Edo (Tokyo), first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)Carved as a group of two rice bales and a treasure bag, the God of Wealth Daikoku emerging from the largest bale in the middle, holding his wish-granting mallet up high, the top carved with a tama jewel, the entire composition set on a flat circular base. Large, asymmetrical himotoshi underneath, the smaller hole ringed in stained bone, and signed MIWA with a typical square seal-shaped kakihan. A charming and spirited little carving, Daikoku’s expression neatly detailed, the wood bearing a good patina.HEIGHT 3.1 cmCondition: Very good condition. Small chip to the side of the base, some minor wear to exposed areas.Provenance: From the collection of Gaston Lazard (1878-1956) and his wife Jane Levy (1886-1985) and thence by descent within the same family.