Antique Japanese Erotic Netsuke, Hand Carved Ivory. Signed

High-quality antique erotic Japanese netsuke, hand-carved on bone. The figures are delicately sculpted with high detail, paying special attention to facial features, clothes and postures. Also, the beauty of the carving is enhanced by delicate strokes of black ink in some places: the characters hair, faces and the embroidery carved on the clothes. The artists signature is carved and lacquered in red at the bottom of the netsuke, something that increases its value. Netsukes were accessories essential for Japanese traditional clothes. They helped to hang the bag or inro (box) where personal belongings were carried, from the obi (kimonos belt) or the belt of the suit. From the simplicity of the first designs, with the passing of time the craftsmen started to accomplish real works of art, in valuable materials like ivory and depicting all kind of scenes: erotic, mythological, animals These accessories began to be produced in the 17th century and their use decayed in the 19th century, when Western clothes began to be worn in Japan. Nowadays, antique netsukes are valuable pieces, highly appreciated by collectors. The intense erotic theme of this netsuke turns it into a very special piece, highly realistic and beautifully crafted. The quality of the carving, the age of the piece and the artists signature show that this piece is a real work of art and a first-class antique, worth of figuring in the best collection. Netsuke measurements: 190 x 12 mm.