Minko – billy-goat netsuke
Tsu, circa 1800
A plump billy-goat sits with its forelegs tucked beneath its body and resting its weight on its right flank. Its beard flows down its chest and the long horns curve back against its neck. The bold immediacy of Minko’s carving belies the sophisticated detail of his work. The metal eyes are double-inlaid with horn pupils.