

Lot 94Y
A European ivory carving of a priest converted to a netsuke 17th/18th century
Amended
15 May 2012, 10:30 BST
London, New Bond StreetSold for £1,375 inc. premium
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Find your local specialistA European ivory carving of a priest converted to a netsuke
17th/18th century
The priest, probably intended for Saint Joseph, standing on a seal base, holding the child Christ with one hand and a leaf with the other, a himotoshi carved into the back, the ivory somewhat worn and bearing a fine patina, unsigned. 7.3cm (2 7/8in).
The priest, probably intended for Saint Joseph, standing on a seal base, holding the child Christ with one hand and a leaf with the other, a himotoshi carved into the back, the ivory somewhat worn and bearing a fine patina, unsigned. 7.3cm (2 7/8in).
Footnotes
象牙彫根付 伝道師 無銘 17/18世紀
This is probably the example, described as Saint Joseph, in the W. L. Behrens collection, no.463 (unillustrated).
Saleroom notices
Please note that contrary to the description, the figure is intended to represent St. Anthony of Padua, who is a Franciscan saint and not a priest as catalogued.