Figure Item Number: 3529/1 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Small ivory netsuke carving of a monkey, with black ink(?) highlights throughout. It has an intricately carved face surrounded with fur; small circular ears protrude from the fur. The monkey is crouched on both legs, and shown in profile, with its head facing the side. One arm is touching the ground and the other is tucked behind its back, holding a bunch of fruit. Monkey’s tail is curved around front of carving. Shallow lines incised across entire figure, imitating fur. Two circular openings on monkey’s belly that connect inside figure, forming a passage; border incised around openings. Artist signature on base.

Narrative

Signed 吉川; Kanji characters can be read either Yoshikawa or Kikkawa.