Boxwood netsuke depicting an Oni mask, signed Deme Saku, Japan, Edo period

Superb Japanese netsuke in carved boxwood depicting an oni mask, a demon from Noh theater. The powerful expression, marked by the domed forehead, prominent eyes, and half-open mouth revealing the fangs, illustrates the sculptor's virtuosity. The warm patina of the boxwood, alternating polished and shaded areas, reveals an experienced hand and a great sense of volume.

On the reverse, the signature Deme Saku (出目作), attributable to the school of Deme Tatsutaka, founded in Kyoto in the 18th century and renowned for the precision of its miniature masks, particularly those used in netsuke. The inscription could also refer to a later member of this lineage, sometimes active in Pokedo.

A piece of very fine quality, where the spirit of Noh theatre is condensed in the rigour of the modelling and the depth of the wood.

Height: 4 cm.