AN IVORY NETSUKE BY SHIGEMASA OF A TIGER ON BAMBOOIvory netsuke. Japan, 19th centuryA fiercely looking tiger, or tora, is crouching on a large bamboo stalk. This relates to the motif take ni tora, ‘tiger in bamboo’. There are many different interpretations; the tiger has a strong nature, is flexible and resilient like the bamboo, but it is also said that the strong tiger is looking for shelter underneath the bamboo, as any earthly power is inferior to the forces of nature. Moreover, the tiger and bamboo represent the power of faith in Buddhism. Very fine, self-contained, lively and charming work. The artist attached a shoot on the side, so the netsuke does not roll over. Finely carved signature SHIGE-MASA 重 正 on the underside. Condition: Good general condition, perhaps a smoothed out chip on one of the openings of the bamboo stalk Provenance: From a French private collection, acquired at Godeau, 2nd June 1980HEIGHT 4.2 CMThis lot is subject to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora [CITES]. It may only be exported outside the European Union after an export permit in accordance with CITES has been granted by the Austrian authorities. Zacke Gallery cannot and does not guarantee that such export permit may or will be obtained, but will by order of the winning bidder, once and exclusively after the item in question has been paid in full, apply to obtain such a permit at a fixed administrative fee of €100,- per application (fee valid for 'Fine Netsuke, Sagemono & Okimono' auction only). This process usually takes 6 months, and most permits we have applied for, have been granted in the past. Our team is happy to assist you with any questions you may have regarding this process