AN EARLY WOOD NETSUKE OF OKAME IN A BATHTUB Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The wood netsuke of a good size and depicting the Shinto goddess Okame bathing herself in a tub. She has a pronounced forehead, large chubby cheeks, and one of her breasts is revealed, the other is hidden behind her raised knee. Rather amusingly, she tries to reach her back with her hands, to wash herself with the sponge she is holding, but due to her exaggerated proportions is unable to do so. Remnants of black lacquer in the crevices and large, asymmetrical himotoshi to the underside, both indications for an early netsuke. HEIGHT 3.7 cm, DIAMETER 3.9 cm Condition: Good condition with associated wear and fine patina. An old smoothed down chip to the edge of the tub. Provenance: British collection.