Figurine: Ronin

"A fine and rare Japanese boxwood carving of an important historical figure, Oishi Kuranosuke, the head of the 47 Ronin, 3 1/4” high, by Morita Soko, a very important “So School” carver. The 20th century So School carvers all had “So” in their professional names (Gyokuso, Sosui, et al). (Morita Soko - 1879 - 1942). At age 15, Morita Soko became a student of Joso Miyazaki. In 1907, Soko became an independent. He worked, for the most part, in wood with a samll output in ivory. His style is realistic, delicate and reveals extreme care with each movement of his knives (tools). his works are refined and beautiful with microscopic carving and details. It took months to complete an intricate okimono. Many of his carvings were commissioned.

His works have been exhibited in various Japanese exhibitions (while he was still living). He was awarded various prizes over a dozen times during his lifetime. He was the leader of the netsuke carvers of his time. He produced more netsuke than okimono (the latter are extremely rare). His works have been in famous collections including Bushell Collection, the Lazarnick Collection, the Sekido Collection (current President of the Japanese Netsuke Kenkyukai) et al.

This is a figure which is rare to find, as most depictions are in prints." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 8/31/2005.