A TSU SCHOOL DARK WOOD NETSUKE OF FIVE TOADS Unsigned Japan, Tsu, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Finely carved in dark-reddish wood as four young toads clambering on a larger toad, which is almost entirely obscured, with few features discernible from the underside, though clearly showing that one of the toads is sitting on its face. The toads' warty skin is finely stippled, and their faces are neatly detailed. LENGTH 3.7 cm Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Provenance: European collection. Auction comparison: Compare a related netsuke of two toads on a waraji by Tomin, also dated to the early 19th century, at Bonhams, The Harriet Szechenyi Sale of Japanese Art, 8 November 2011, London, lot 211 (sold for 2,750 GBP).