Unsigned – Shoki and oni
A stag antler netsuke of Shoki looking down with a stern expression at the wriggling oni he has captured. The ‘scourge of demons’ clasps his right hand firmly around the miscreant’s neck, while in his left hand he holds a double-edged sword. Shoki and oni netsuke are usually gently humorous, the little imp often seen outwitting his captor.
Early 19th century
Height: 8.9cm.