An ivory netsuke

Unsigned, Edo Period - 18th century
Width & Height: 1 3/4 in. (4.5 cm.)

The subject of this netsuke is commonly known as the "Three Sake Drinkers". It depicts Confucius, Sakyamuni and Lao Tseu drinking sake from a large jar in the middle. Each figure represents a different religion: Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism. While all three men drink the same sake, the alcohol does not produce the same effect. This in fact has a strong spiritual connotation showing that there are not only one truth and one moral, and that each religion, through their respective founder, teach a different way of life.

Condition: Eexcellent

Please note: We can only ship this item within the US. It requires a CITES to be exported outside the US.

Ref. 683651

Price on Request