JAPAN - MEIJI period (1868 - 1912) Ivory Netsuke (Elephantidae SPP), oni on an overturned basket under which Shoki is hiding. Signed Masakazu (chips and restorations). Dim. 4 x 6 x 4.3 cm Ivory is a material often used for netsuke for two reasons: it is easy to carve and therefore allows a wide variety of shapes, and it is a noble material, imported into Japan, which is therefore prestigious. Very often, the theme represented is inspired by Japanese folklore, as is the case here. Some of them also feature well-known signatures by netsuke sculptors. The CITES certificate will be given to the buyer.