Антикварні фігурки з кістки (нецке)

An antique pair of carved bone netsuke created in the tradition of Japanese miniature sculpture. The first figure depicts a character of the Okina or Hannya / male spirit type with a dual nature; its distinctive feature is a movable head that changes the facial expression from a benevolent smile to an angry grimace, symbolizing the mutability of human nature, hidden emotions, and the duality of character. This type of “transforming” netsuke is highly valued by collectors for the complexity of its construction. The second figure represents a man carrying another character on his shoulders, a popular motif that may be interpreted as an allegory of the teacher and pupil or of father and son. Carved symbols are present on the bases of both netsuke.