RANMEI: AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A MONKEY WITH PER... Lot n° 50

By Ranmei, signed Ranmei 蘭明 Japan, Kyoto, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A decidedly male monkey (saru) holds a ripe persimmon with one hand and one leg as he takes a large bite. The two other free limbsshow pierced holes which function as himotoshi, making for an interesting and unusual cord attachment. The hairwork is finely incised, appropriately worn, and the eyes are inlays of reddish horn with dark pupils. Signed underneath in sosho (running script) within an oval reserve RANMEI. Ranmei was a pupil of Hogen Rantei who produced similar monkeys (see auction comparison). HEIGHT 2.9 cm Condition: Good, complete condition with age-appropriate wear and age cracks. Provenance: French private collection. Auction comparison: Compare to a similar netsuke sold in these rooms by Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono, 27 April 2019, Vienna, lot 110 (sold for 4.424 EUR).