GYOKKOSAI: A SUPERB EDO SCHOOL WOOD NETSUKE OF SHOKI AND ONI By Gyokkosai, signed Gyokko 玉光 Japan, Edo (Tokyo), early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerfully carved study of the demon queller Shoki pressing down against a hole-riddled bag filled with four oni, trying to re-capture them, holding one by the scruff off the neck, while another grabs Shoki by the arm. Shoki has an intense expression, his pupils are inlaid in dark horn and his beard is flowing in the wind. The demon hunter wears a half-shouldered robe, his loose sleeve finely draping down to the ground, and his sword is visible in the back. Himotoshi and signature GYOKKO underneath. LENGTH 4.5 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor surface wear. Beautiful, dark patina. Provenance: Ex-collection Mary Louise O'Brien. Sold at Christie's, 21 March 1985, Lot 723, the signature misread as Masahide. Then ex-collection Helen & Jack Mang. Gyokkosai was a pupil of Ikkosai and is perhaps best known for his groups of oni. His earlier wood netsuke are very rare.