A ivory netsuke with two karashishi

Shishi no tamago

19th century

Lenght: 3.8 cm

A rare netsuke representing a young shishi about to step out from an eggshell, while another is watching from above.

The composition is rather peculiar, as shishi do not hatch from eggs, while they are often portrayed holding a tama, the sacred pearl, between their pawns. This netsuke is then playing with words, imagining the “tama” (which is in fact carved perfectly spherical) is a “tamago", an egg, from which a young one is stepping out.

Netsuke for sale. Price on application. Please include item stock number: net-1239