A SMALL IVORY NETSUKE OF HOTEIIvory netsuke. Japan, early 19th centuryA delightful depiction of this little netsuke deity, originating from the Chinese monk Budai, an emblem of mental well-being. This netsuke shows Hotei laughing with delight, holding his plump belly with one hand. The obligatory karako becomes part of the deity’s garment in this fine composition and is peeping out from behind Hotei. The color on the deeper carvings give this piece a wonderful, three-dimensional quality. Condition: Good, age-related condition Provenance: From the collection of Marcel Lorber, then Austrian private collection Published:: Illustrated in “Netsuke” by Wolfmar Zacken (1987) – no. 35HEIGHT 3.9 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