Kyokutei
Early 20th century
An unusual obi-hasami netsuke depicting a bat, its long body formed by the neatly folded wings whose stylised claw-like thumbs curl up to form the hook at the base of the carving. Large, rounded ears frame the head and a channel formed through the two corners of the mouth act as the himotoshi. The fur-covered head and body contrast with the smooth wings. The details are carved with great delicacy.
Japan is home to more bat species than any other type of mammal. A popular decorative motif, it is associated with good fortune, a concept adopted from Chinese culture.
Signed: Kyokutei
Length: 12.6cm
