Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) One carved as a kneeling samurai wearing an odd hat and an elaborate robe with countless inlaid parcel-gilt metal beads as well as green-stained ivory disks, the other carved as a seated princess or court lady with a pensive expression, one hand supporting her head while the other rests on her knee, her dress with similar decorations as the samurai’s robe. HEIGHT 8.6 and 8.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor traces of wear as well as few lost inlays. Provenance: British collection.