An ivory two-part manjû of Benkei, by Koju. Mid-19th century - image-1

Lot 584 Dα

An ivory two-part manjû of Benkei, by Koju. Mid-19th century

Auction 1092 - overview Cologne
09.06.2017, 18:00 - Netsuke and Sagemono
Estimate: 600 € - 800 €
Result: 1.116 € (incl. premium)

An ivory two-part manjû of Benkei, by Koju. Mid-19th century

Carved in deep sunken relief, Benkei stands holding prayer beads at the prow of a boat breaking waves in a storm. Signed Koju with kaô.
Diameter 5 cm

This manjû shows a key scene in the life of the legendary warrior monk Benkei, loyal henchman to Minamoto no Yoshitsune (1159-1189). Fleeing to exile through the Shimonoseki straits, site of Yoshitsune's naval victory over the Taira clan at the battle of Dannoura, Benkei's boat is caught in a storm brought about by the vengeful drowned Taira warriors. Benkei takes out his priest's rosary, with which he is able to calm the storm.

Provenance

Christie’s South Kensington, London, 19.7.2007, lot 13 (part)