Naturalistic okimono or netsuke in carved deer antler depicting three toads capturing a kappa, attributed to Kiyosan, Japan, second half of the 19th century

Description :
Small okimono, which can also be used as a netsuke, finely carved in deer antler ( shika no tsuno ), representing three toads united to capture a kappa. The material, naturally patinated, retains a blond tint punctuated by darker ink tones which emphasize the volumes. The eyes, inlaid with brown horn, give the scene a vibrant realism.

The kappa, identifiable by its turtle shell and bird-beaked head, is linked to an ancient tradition. These bird-headed kappas, often associated with river deities or pond spirits, were considered guardians of the waters. Here, the creature appears to be pulled out of its element by three determined toads, symbols of transformation and luck.

The whole evokes the struggle between the terrestrial world and aquatic forces, a theme dear to the Japanese imagination. The finesse of the modeling, the tension of the postures and the interlacing composition testify to a virtuoso execution. Under the base is an incised signature, difficult to decipher, but attributable to Kyozan , active in the second half of the 19th century.

Dimensions:
Height 2 cm – Length 6 cm – Width 3.3 cm