A WOOD NETSUKE OF A SHISHI ATTRIBUTED TO CHIKUYOSAI TOMOCHIKA I Attributed to Chikuyosai Tomochika I, unsigned Japan, Edo, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A rather large and powerfully crafted wood netsuke, depicting a seated Shishi lifting its left hind leg as it is about to scratch its ear. The Buddhist lion has boldly carved curls, a flowing mane, and a well-carved bushy tail. The eye pupils are inlays of dark horn. Natural himotoshi through the legs. The netsuke is unsigned, however very similar pieces exist that are signed Tomochika, which are probably some of the earliest netsuke by the master. HEIGHT 4.5 cm, LENGTH 4.8 cm Condition: Good condition with a fine patina. Two age cracks, the larger one to the left leg and tail. Provenance: Old Viennese private collection, collection no. 62, acquired in the late 1980s to early 1990s. Auction comparison: A very similar netsuke signed Tomochika was sold by Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 16 May 2013, London, lot 66 (sold for 1.750 GBP).