Imre Jakabffy (szerk.): Ars Decorativa 2. (Budapest, 1974)

CSEH, Éva: 18th century Japanese netsuke

prominent master at the beginning of the period (1764—71), founder of a school. He — originally a painter — began his activity in Osaka, later worked in Tokyo, whence removed, he returned to Osaka. The cause of his removal

13 is somehow connected with the present piece too, which has also a slightly erotic theme. The master mostly made masque netsuke, especially famous are his Uzume masques. His style is easily distinguishable and it strongly influenced other masters who came in contact with him. His style is a fully refined, accomplished one, with superior technique. Finely elaborated piece, aesthetically pleasing, seen from any side. Characteristic of the style is the contrast between the large smooth surfaces and the minuit details. Two other pieces in our collection — both Shumin*s work —, show a great similarity to Shugetsu's style. Hannya masque. Wood. 5,5 X 3,6 cm. (Fig. 8) Powerful, plastic face of a demon, with sleeked down hair and curved horns. Signature on the back: Shumin saku. It is doubtful if this master, working at the end of the 18th century was the pupil of Shugetsu, Shugetsu II., or Shuzan (Derne?).

K There is a striking similarity though, contrasting it with Shugetsu's style. Especially so, in the case of the masques; the carving of the eyes, the form of the mouth, teeth and chin is identical. The only difference is that Shugetsu's netsuke is somewhat softer, the hair for instance is more finely carved. The himotoshi of both of Shumin's netsuke are sheated in ivory, this being characteristic of all his netsuke.

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' The smaller hole of the himotoshi is green. Swan. Wood. Length: 4,7 cm. (Fig. 9) A gracefully bent head. Neck and head are smooth and shiny. Eyes, beak and wings are finely detailed. Signature and himotoshi are identical with those of the former piece.