A RARE IVORY NETSUKE OF A DANCING KUMOSUKE (TOKAIDO... Lot n° 25

Unsigned Japan, late 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerful ivory netsuke, dynamic and bold in its execution, depicting the rare subject of a kumosuke (Tokaido road porter) dressed in typical attire and shown in a striking pose, singing and dancing. Very good yellowish patina, especially to the reverse, where the himotoshi are also located (one of them in a somewhat humorous position). The kumosuke were men from a rough background who carried daimyo inside a palanquin along the Tokaido road, which connected Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto during the Tokugawa era. They had to be strong, but also needed to know how to sing to entertain the feudal lords. HEIGHT 7.4 cm Condition: Very good condition. Expected fine age cracks. Excellent patina. Provenance: British collection.