MASATOMO: A FINE WOOD NETSUKE OF A RECUMBENT DEER By Masatomo, signed Masatomo 正友 Japan, likely Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely carved as a spotted deer resting on a bed of autumn leaves, the eyes double-inlaid in pale and dark horn, the spine neatly articulated. The underside with two large himotoshi, one haunch with the signature MASATOMO within an oval reserve. LENGTH 4.8 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor surface wear. Provenance: European collection. Auction comparison: Compare a related wood netsuke by Masatomo, depicting a wolf and a hare, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 16 September 2014, New York, lot 2092 (sold for 6,000 USD). Note the similar treatment of the eyes.