AN IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECLINING SHISHIAN IVORY NETSUKE OF A RECLINING SHISHIUnsigned, ivory netsukeJapan, Kyoto, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)A fine, compact and rather small ivory netsuke depicting a reclining and snarling Shishi, with a loose ball in its mouth and the left hindleg scratching the lower jaw. Special consideration has been given to the curly mane as well as the bushy tail of the Shishi, which are carved masterfully. The lion dog’s body is covered in incised spirals and the powerful spine is expressed very well. Very fine patina and natural himotoshi.HEIGHT 3 cmProvenance: British private collection with two valuations from Sotheby’s, by Neil K. Davey, dated 1974 & 1984, inventory no. 61. condition: The left foreleg has been reattached. Otherwise good condition with a very appealing patina.