EDO PERIOD (19TH CENTURY), SIGNED IKKOSAI (IKKOSAI TOUN)

Details

An Ivory Netsuke**
Edo period (19th century), signed Ikkosai (Ikkosai Toun)
Carved as the warrior Omori Hikohichi with a female demon on his back clinging to his hair, the figures' robes decorated with flowering vines and clouds carved in fine lines and lightly stained
3in. (7.6cm.) high

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Lot Essay

Omori Hikohichi, a loyal vassal of Ashikaga Takauji (1305-1358), was rewarded with governorship of a large territory after his assistance in the defeat of Kusunoki Masashige (1294-1336). To celebrate his improved status, Hikohichi sponsored a large party that lasted for several days. One night while on his way to the festivities, Hikohichi came upon a beautiful girl distressed after having lost her way. Carrying her on his back for some distance, they finally came to a river. As they crossed it, Hikohichi saw the girl's face reflected in the water and he realized she had transformed herself into a terrible demon. In some versions of the story, the demon is supposed to be the daughter of Kusunoki Masashige trying to avenge her father's death.

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