"An Ivory Netsuke Depicting Chokaro With Pumpkin And Horse"
Ivory netsuke depicting Chokaro clinging to the pumpkin from which the head of a horse emerges. The subject represents the miniature horse of Chōkarō 張果老.It refers to the legend of Chōkarō Sennin, an immortal being who owns a horse that he can summon as if by magic from a pumpkin if necessary. In Japanese there is a saying “hyōtan kara koma”, “horse appearing from a pumpkin”. This expression reminds us that something completely unexpected and unforeseen can happen in life.
Signature engraved under the base.
Period: Meiji end of 19th century.
Dimensions: 4.7 x 4.2 x 2.8 cm.
Conservation status: Excellent condition. The Sennin's left foot was glued shut.
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