Matsunoki

It’s always worth remembering that a huge slice of Japanese art and imagery (of any variety from all periods) has been borrowed from or loosely based on earlier Chinese art/history. That includes religious figures, legends, general art styles and subjects etc That can be very confusing at times but the usual giveaway is the unique aesthetic that the Japanese bring to art. It is different to Chinese but takes a while to recognise. Also the Japanese pay meticulous attention to detail. A good example is to compare Japanese netsuke with the modern Chinese stuff. Same applies with tsuba. Even very well carved Chinese pieces are artistically totally different. it is difficult toexplain but Japanese often has a “softness” to it.

@Bugyotsuji….Piers, what do you think? Im still for Japanese especially with that lovely ivory “repair” (but that is not based on hard knowledge!)

Imo Japanese. Nice “wabi sabi” feel to it.

Forgot to answer fully…age…likely last 20 years, origin likely africa, value (artistic or monetary) zero. Sorry but these are far worse than even the modern Chinese fakes.

As said above….not netsuke, not Japanese and sad to say that elephants are still being killed to make stuff like this as souvenirs for tourists🤬

John, sorry, no. We parted company a while ago. Best. C.

Hi Rob search for “legend of the badger tea kettle” ….very well known and much depicted in varied Japanese arts

I was wrong…..they did thank us!…..

…..and they commonly charge us Buyers over 30% premium for the privilege of doing business with them……but that is a choice we as buyers make…..it’s up to us whether we chose to actually view a lot or whether we actually chose to buy it unseen and risk it. It’s a tough reality!

The wrapping (and skin) on the longer one suggests strongly that it is not of Japanese origin but more likely from a Chinese fake. The smaller one is Japanese but impossible to give a reliable date beyond saying Edo period.

Whilst you really need legal expertise to interpret and understand Bonhams extensive Conditions of Sale they generally protect Bonhams from liability. “Caveat emptor” is the apparent principle.

Appears that they have been withdrawn. I was a bit blunt in what I said……so best we don’t expect any thanks🙂

Thanks Ray. Very kind of you.

I think I can see “? Ji ni ? Month ?lucky? Day” …..I’m confused again. Is this a date? Any help greatly appreciated! Sorry to be useless on kanji! Many thanks.

I’ve emailed Rachel Hyman. (“Senior specialist”) ……erm. Let’s see what she does.