A WOOD NETSUK E BY TANRI OF A TOAD ON A SANDALWood netsuke. Japan, 19th centuryThis very finely carved toad on a waraji (sandal) is the only known work of this artist, pictured with signature in the great Lazarnick book “Netsuke and Inro Artists” on page 1078. Lazarnick quotes Neil Davey: “One recorded. Wood. Model of toad. Good work. 19th century”. The toad is better than “good”, masterfully carved – in motion, the warty skin’s structure, lively, shiny and black inlaid eyes with dark horn. Very unusual, fierce expression. The sandal is carved in a realistic manner with great detail. The signature TAN-RI 丹 李 and himotoshi are found on the underside. The large cord channel is surrounded by the sandal straps. Very good patina. Condition: Good condition – tiny nick on the underside of the waraji; one - perhaps natural - hole inside the larger himotoshi Provenance: From an English private collection Published:: Lazarnick “Netsuke and Inro Artists” – page 1078WIDTH 4.5 CM