AN IVORY RYUSA NETSUKE OF A WINGED DRAGON BY ... Lot n° 15

Ryusa ivory netsuke Japan 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) An unusually precisely carved, entirely openworked netsuke of the ryusa type. The egg-shaped netsuke is fully hollowed out on the interior and shows many cloud spirals and a tatsu (dragon) with eagle-like wings. Its horned head with blowing barbels is carved in a precise and grim manner. The backside shows a decorative composition with four stylized shapes after the reishi longevity mushroom. Himotoshi outlined in the manner of kiku blossoms (chrysanthemum), the eyes inlaid with shiny silver. Signed MASAHISA. The style and quality of this piece suggest it was made by a master from the circle of Masatsugu. WIDTH 3.4 CM Condition: Very good condition with appealing patina Provenance: German private collection