A stained ivory netsuke of an octopus, wearing a kimono on a bell-shaped vessel, signed Hidemasa, 19th CenturyAccording to Henri Joly in 'Legend in Japanese Art' (page 283), this subject is a variation of Kiyohime wrapped around the great bell of Dojoji Monastery.Provenance: The Property of a Lady. From a Private Collection acquired by her Great-Grandfather and all collected prior to his death in 1944.PLEASE NOTE: THIS ITEM CONTAINS OR IS MADE OF IVORY. Buyers must be aware that regulations of several countries, including USA, prohibit the import of ivory, or any goods containing ivory. Ewbank's advise prospective purchasers who intend to ship this lot to another country that they must familiarise themselves with the relevant import/export regulations prior to bidding. They are responsible for their shipping arrangements, and the onus is therefore on them to arrange their own shipping .Some deterioration, including: areas of age cracks and small chip.