Beschreibung:

Lot details By Kato Tomotoshi, signed Kato Tomotoshi and kakihan Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912) The majestic eagle swooping down to prize away an infant monkey from the arms of its mother. The primate lifeless as the eagle digs its talons into its limp body, the sharp claws puncturing its skin, the mother holding on to its one arm, prying its baby away from the eagle’s clutches. Another infant scrambles under its mother’s protection, gripping on to her tail, as she bares her teeth at the predator. The scene executed in superb detail with the plumage of the bird carved with precision and eyes inlaid in mother-of-pearl, the stained and incised fur of the monkey similarly executed. The rush of movement and dynamism further exacerbated by the last infant trying to escape from under the wings of the imposing eagle. Signed to the base KATO TOMOTOSHI with the artist’s kakihan. HEIGHT 8.8 cm Condition: Old restoration to one wing. Otherwise very good condition with minor wear, some natural flaws, and presenting beautifully. Provenance: From a private collection in Belgium, published in the commissioned private catalogue ‘The Nibajama collection’ no. 9. Kato Tomotoshi was a highly talented ivory carver who participated in and received a prize at the second carving competition organised by the Tokyo Chokokai (The Tokyo Carver's Association) in 1889. Auction comparison: For another work by the artist, signed Tokosai Tomotoshi, see Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 17 May 2018, London, lot 233 (sold for GBP 5,000). Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 2022/BE04290/CE).