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An ivory netsuke of a monkey in a suit of armor.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:900.00 USD Estimated At:1,800.00 - 2,000.00 USD
An ivory netsuke of a monkey in a suit of armor.
By Ikkosai Toun (1805-1876), Tokyo, Mid 19th century. , Mid 19th century. Representing the story of Hideyoshi Toyatomi, the "monkey-faced servant" (Saru-men Kwanja) who was sent by his master, Yukitsuna, to buy a suit of armor like that worn by Nobunaga and instead of executing the commission, he applied to Nobunaga for employment. The head is attached by a cord and revolves, eyes inlaid in black horn, and the whole is nicely stained and well-patinated with a few age cracks. Signed on the bottom without reserve, Ikkosai. 2 1/4in (5.7cm). Provenance: Purchased from Joseph U. Seo, 1955.