A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL ON A LOTUS LEAF

A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A SNAIL ON A LOTUS LEAF
Unsigned
Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Finely carved as a snail creeping over a furled lotus leaf borne on a short and elegantly curved stem, its optical tentacles touching the veined leaf, with striking contrast between the densely incised linework and highly polished opening of the leaf as well as the subtly incised shell and skin of the snail. Himotoshi to the underside and interior of the leaf.
LENGTH 5.2 cm
Condition: Good condition with surface wear, a tiny nick to one of the feelers, minor nicks to the leaf.
Provenance:
Ex-collection Teddy Hahn, Darmstadt, acquired from Galerie Flachsmann, Germany, in 1983.
The main inspiration for netsuke subjects was the natural world, most commonly animals, birds, and plants. Although the netsuke appears simple it was, in fact, very demanding to carve. The skill lies in contrasting the smooth, curved upper surfaces with the intricate, textured design of the lotus leaf. This netsuke's compact and smooth form made it an ideal piece to be worn.
Literature comparison:
Compare a near-identical netsuke, 5.7 cm wide, in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, accession number A.999-1910.