Longevity Of Peach and Crane

Jurojin, one of the Shichifukujin, or Seven Lucky Gods of China. He is the god of longevity, patron and protector of scholar. Jurojin is often seen holding a fan, and accompanied with a white crane. As portrayed in this finely carved netsuke, the crane is feeding on the leaf of a peach held in Jurojin's left hand; both of which are symbols of longevity.

This is a very well carved netsuke from a quality piece of ivory. Both composition and details are sharply observed. The figure of Jurojin and crane are modeled vigorously in deep dimensions, and polished in planes of soft round edges. Though that the subject matter has been popular since 17th century, and the incised signature Yoshitomo is an identical name of an 18th century Kyoto artist, nonetheless, its mint condition and overall style are more accurately attributed to works created in the early 20th century.