RARE LACQUERED WOOD MASK NETSUKE OF AN ONI Inscribed with the name of the mask 'haha oni' 母鬼 Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Published: Bushell, Raymond (1985) Netsuke Masks, p. 20, no. 32. The mask netsuke expressively carved and lacquered in creamy white, black, and red lacquer to depict a powerfully grimacing oni. The oni has large, bushy black-lacquered eyebrows which loom over his eyes. The devilish mask has a curling beard, a large pronounced nose and its mouth is opened, baring huge black-lacquered fangs. The lacquer is intentionally worn-down to give the impression of an old mask. Himotoshi through the central bridge in the reverse. The mask is not signed but rather inscribed with the name of the mask – 'haha oni' – which means mother oni. HEIGHT 4.5 cm Condition: Very good condition with intentional and age-related wear to lacquer. Provenance: Ex collection Raymond Bushell, then European collection P. Jacquesson.