SEIYODO TOMIHARU (ATTR.): A FINE EBONY WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT OX Attributed to Seiyodo Tomiharu (1733-1810), unsigned Japan, Iwami province, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Earle, Joe (2000) The Robert S. Huthart Collection of Iwami Netsuke, Vol. 2, p. 283, no. 252. A sensitively crafted depiction of an ox with its legs neatly tucked underneath the body and the head slightly raised. The eyes are beautifully inlaid in pale horn with black pupils. The rope halter attached to the ox’s nose is minutely carved and extends in an s-shape over the animal’s back. The ebony wood is smoothly polished, appearing glossy, and the hairwork is phenomenal – so fine that one only really appreciates it under magnification. The bulky proportions of the ox are achieved very well by angularly cut sections, typical for Iwami oxes. Good himotoshi to the underside. LENGTH 5.1 cm Condition: Excellent condition. Provenance: Robert S. Huthart Collection. Auction comparison: Compare to an ebony study of an ox by Seiyodo Tomiharu, sold at Bonhams, Japanese Works of Art, 19 September 2008, New York, lot 5060.