Netsuke, wood. Japan, 19th cent. Finely executed work of Saigyo Hoshi, whose civil name was Norikiyo and belonged to the palace guard under the Emperor Toba (12th C.). Later when the emperor became a priest, Norikiyo followed him. After Toba´s death he began a restless nomadic life and wrote poetry. During his visit at the court of Shogun Yoritomo (a political enemy), he received the gift of a silver kitten.... Signature MASA-KUNI (right to left when seen from the front) on the foot soles…
