A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHISHI ON A LARGE BALL Lot n° 19

Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The shishi standing on its hind legs with the front legs placed on a large and smooth ball in front, the details such as the flaming mane and tail, fur patterns, and claws superbly executed, the head quite expressive with the open mouth containing a loose ball and revealing sharp fangs, the eyes with dark inlaid pupils, and wide flaring nostrils. The ovoid ball with two asymmetrical himotoshi to one side. HEIGHT 4.7 cm, LENGTH 5.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor surface wear, few minuscule nicks. Provenance: European collection. Auction comparison: Compare with a related unsigned wood netsuke of a shishi, dated to the 18th century, at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part III, 6 November 2018, London, lot 170 (sold for 5,625 GBP).