An Ivory Okimono Of A Rakan Holding A Ritual Vase, Signed Kazutoshi

An important one-piece carved ivory okimono depicting a Rakan, rendered with extraordinary expressive intensity.

His face, characterized by a long flowing beard, finely carved wrinkles, and a contemplative gaze, conveys a sense of serene wisdom and quiet authority, while the voluminous robes envelop the figure in graceful, harmonious folds. In his left hand, the Rakan holds an elegant ritual vase, most likely an allusion to the lustral water used in Buddhist tradition as a symbol of purification and the transmission of the Dharma.

The quality of the carving is exceptional: the naturalistic treatment of the face, the refined anatomical rendering of the hands, the fluidity of the drapery, and the warm patina of the ivory all attest to remarkable technical mastery and meticulous attention to detail.

Signed Kazutoshi underneath the base.

Period: Meiji period, late 19th century
Dimensions: 22.5 x 6.5 x 5.5 cm.
Condition report: Very good condition.