A HUMOROUS WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO MONKEYS AND PEACH, ATTRIBUTED TO MITSUHARU

A HUMOROUS WOOD NETSUKE OF TWO MONKEYS AND PEACH, ATTRIBUTED TO MITSUHARU
Attributed to Mitsuharu, unsigned
Japan, Kyoto, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
An amusing wood netsuke depicting a seated monkey holding a peach branch away from its infant, cradled in its arms, as the young monkey pulls on the stem tugging it closer to enjoy the succulent fruits. The parent with an impish expression as it smiles at its child's futile efforts. The large eyes inlaid with horn and the fur very finely incised. Asymmetrical himotoshi to the back.
HEIGHT 4.2 cm
Condition: Restoration to the foot, otherwise in good condition.
Literature comparison:
Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a monkey and turtle, signed Mitsuharu, in The International Netsuke Society Journal (INSJ), vol. 39, no. 1, p. 17, no. 14.
Auction comparison:
Compare a closely related ivory netsuke of a monkey with peaches, inscribed Masakazu but by Mitsuharu, at Zacke, Fine Netsuke, Sagemono, 27 March 2020, Vienna, lot 42. (
sold for EUR 2,907
).