Mongolian Archer Netsuke Signed Shozan Vintage Japanese Carved Matsu Boxwood Sagemono 松山

Vintage Japanese Matsu Wood Netsuke
Mongolian Archer
Holding Archery Trophy Arrow
Signature: Shozan 松山, Circa: 1950-60s’
H 2.5 in. (6.5cm), W 1 in. (2.5cm), D 0.6 in. (1.5cm)
Condition: coral eyes, overall excellent!

Carved of lightly tea stained Japanese pine, this Mongol Archer on horse netsuke is a cherished motif, here the champion archer is shown smilingly holding a large arrow near his chest, with legs drawn up on a small Mongolian horse, the posture of the archer is dramatic, yet tactile in its overall design. it exhibits character detail and workmanship. Additional details including the depiction of Mongolian features with deep eye sockets and silt lids, quilted cape, thick boots, with bow and arrows on his back, and coral inlays for the eyes of the horse, which further enhances the strong graphic quality in this little netsuke.Signed Shozan, the mark of a famous 18th-century netsukeshi and a well-established business in 20th century Japan.