Japanese Meiji Period (1868-1912) Netsuke Of The Fox-Priest Hakusozu. 15.5cm.

A rare Japanese netsuke of natural material (probably bone) intricately hand-carved in the form of Hakusozu, the fox priest. Standing enveloped in a long robe, a large cowl draped over it's head, the two ears visible through the cloth, the face with a sly expression, the mouth slightly agape. An attractive pose with hands lightly resting on a bamboo staff. Condition: Expected age cracks, natural fissures and minor losses with a perfectly functional himotoshi (cord holes) to the back. Mounted on a cylindrical stand with turned ebony base. Dates from the Meiji period (1868-1912). Hakusozu is the name of a popular kitsune character who pretended to be a priest in Japanese folklore. In this story, a hunter is visited by his uncle, the priest Hakuzōsu, who lectures his nephew on the evils of killing foxes. The hunter is nearly convinced, but after the priest departs, he hears the cry of the fox and realizes it wasn't his uncle at all but a fox in disguise. The fox resumes his natural form and reverts to his wild ways, takes the bait in a trap and is captured.

Height (netsuke) : 6.5cm

Height (including base) : 15.5cm

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