Tadatoshi
Nagoya, circa 1840
A group of seven turtles arranged as a pyramid, the three largest grouped at the bottom to support their clambering companions. Unusually for the subject, Tadatoshi has demonstrated his skill in capturing the dynamic sense of a seething mass of chelonians, each feature carved in minute detail.
Published:
Journal of the International Netsuke Society, vol.19/3 Fall 1999, p.20, pl.18.
In the accompanying text, Gabor Wilhelm remarks “The impeccable chiselling of the legs and beautiful malty staining are only to be expected from the Nagoya master..”