A RARE AND EARLY WOOD NETSUKE OF A DRAGON, DUAL-FUNCTION AS BRUSHREST Unsigned Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Boldly carved as a fierce dragon clutching a tama (jewel) in its claw, its writhing body with neatly detailed scales on the underside and stippled skin at the top, the underside with two large himotoshi. Note that this netsuke also functions as a brushrest which due to the form was clearly intentional. LENGTH 9.3 cm Condition: Very good condition with old wear and a fine, dark patina. Provenance: German private collection. This netsuke was probably intended for a literati or painter. For another brushrest netsuke see the Linden Museum Stuttgart, inventory number OA 18.801.