Japanese Kyoto School carved ivory netsuke of Gentoku on Tekiro by Tomomasa
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
19th Century
This large Japanese Kyoto School netsuke is carved from ivory and dates to the 19th century. The carving depicts the figure of Gentoku riding his steed, Tekiro, as the horse runs over stylized waves.
The figure of Gentoku is captured with a stern expression, leaning to one side while firmly gripping the reins. The steed is depicted with its head raised, adding a dynamic sense of movement to the composition. The netsuke exhibits a deep honey patina on its reverse side, characteristic of the aging process of the material. The piece is signed by the artist Tomomasa within an oval reserve on the back. Due to its size and medium, the object displays signs of age, including age cracking.
This intricate sculptural work serves as an example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, combining functional form with detailed figurative narrative. The overall height of the netsuke is 2.75 inches.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Height
- 2.75 inches
- Material
- ivory
Design
- Subject
- Gentoku on steed Tekiro running over waves
- Signature
- Signed by Tomomasa in an oval reserve on the back
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
- Maker named in listing
- Tomomasa
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.