Project Description
Kurogaki Netsuke of Horse Licking its Leg
An unusual composition with the stallion lying on its side and nuzzling the hoof of its right hind leg. The artist has cleverly used a piece of wood which is light across the back of the horse and almost black elsewhere. The body was originally enlivened with a series of stippled circles, which have largely worn away. The eyes are inlaid in a reddish material, horn or stained bone. The netsuke has a most pleasing roundness to it and feels good in the hand. Although it has generous 18th century style himotoshi, three legs form a loop which would serve equally well
Unsigned. Circa 1800
Width: 4.5 cm
Provenance:
Julius and Arlette Katchen collection, Paris
Private collection, Australia
Literature:
A. Katchen, Netsuke 7, vol. 2, pp. 364-365, no. K158
MR3341
