A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF ASHINAGA AND TENAGA FISHING Unsigned Japan, late 18th to early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A large and finely carved wood netsuke of Ashinaga and Tenaga. The long-legged Ashinaga is struggling to support Tenaga on his back with his short arms, while the stubby-legged Tenaga pulls a large fish out of the water. Note the expressively carved faces. Large himotoshi through Ashinaga's back. The symbiotic pair of yokai-fishermen are dressed in sennin attire with artemisia leaf skirts and loosely fitted robes. The wood bearing a fine, natural hand patina. HEIGHT 9.6 cm Condition: Good condition. The beard of Ashinaga with an old chip. Provenance: British private collection.