Figurative tonkotsu carved from paulownia wood, Japan, late Edo period, dated Tenpō 7 (1836)

A tonkotsu carved in the round from paulownia wood. It depicts a seated male figure with one leg raised, the corresponding hand resting on the knee, the fist closed and pierced, indicating the original presence of an added attribute, now lost. The other arm rests on a carved armrest, a sign of the figure's status. The figure is wearing a headdress and formal attire.

The garment is treated like a rich textile, entirely engraved with a floral design. The whole is enhanced by a patina of use that reveals the wood grain and softens the edges. On the back of the figure, a distinct motif, isolated from the floral pattern, can be interpreted as a highly stylized kamon, of the fuji-mon (wisteria) type, in an ascending variant, usually attributed to members of the Fujihara family.

Indoor locker

The object consists of a large compartment, and inside it a smaller, concealed compartment, closed by a sliding lid integrated into the structure, intended for accessories related to tobacco use. The sliding lid bears an inscription mentioning fire or ignition; on the other side of the lid is the craftsman's signature.

Inscription engraved on the reverse (transcription and translation)

On the reverse, a particularly elaborate engraved inscription provides a rare anchor for this type of sagemono, combining the date, season, origin, and name of the craftsman. The inscription reads as follows, in the order of the lines:

信州住“Residing in Shinshū Province (Shinano)”

中村作“Made by Nakamura”

Seventh year of the Tenpō era (1836)

Mid -Autumn

The engraved surface is complemented by figurative elements integrated into the composition, notably two arrows, as well as a reminder of the heraldic motif (kamon). The whole, by virtue of the quality of the carving, the preservation of the internal mechanism, and the presence of a dated and signed inscription, constitutes a documented and rare example of tobacco accessories from the late Edo period.

Dimensions

Height: 13 cm | Width: 13 cm | Depth: 8 cm