An Ivory Netsuke Depicting A Monkey Riding Namazu

Ivory netsuke depicting a monkey skillfully grasping and riding the legendary earthquake fish Namazu, an imposing catfish-like creature with an eel-like body, which was believed to cause earthquakes with its movement.

The famous Kadori Myojin is represented by a monkey. She takes on the role of guardian, keeping the Namazu under close control to prevent the potential triggering of a catastrophic earthquake.

This netsuke is signed under the Masakazu base.

Origin: Japan

Period: Edo 19th century.

Dimensions: 1.5 x 5.8 x 2.1 cm.

State of conservation: Very good