Tengu Mask Netsuke — Edo to Early Meiji Period by  政斎 (Masasai / Seisai)

Tengu Mask Netsuke — Edo to Early Meiji Period by  政斎 (Masasai / Seisai)

A finely carved and expressive wood netsuke in the form of a theatrical Tengu mask, finished in a rich vermilion lacquer with contrasting gilt and dark metal details. The mask displays the iconic exaggerated long nose, bulging eyes , sharply arched brows, and a wide, open mouth revealing individually detailed metal teeth. The surface is smoothly worn, showing a soft, even patina from handling, creating a warm contrast between the red lacquered front and the lightly aged natural wood on the reverse.

The reverse is carved with a deep cavity and rounded himotoshi, consistent with traditional mask-form netsuke construction. The piece bears a crisp, stylized signature 政斎 (Masasai / Seisai), executed in a theatrical cursive hand often associated with the Kyoto mask-carvers tradition.

The carving exudes bold character, humor, and a dramatic stage presence — a quality highly prized in mask netsuke. The spirited expression, confident modeling, and quality of lacquer work suggest an accomplished carver working within the mask-maker schools of Kyoto or Osaka, dating to the late Edo to early Meiji period.

Condition: Excellent condition with minor expected handling wear, no cracks or restorations. Fine patina throughout.
Provenance: Private collection.
Dimensions: 4 x 2 cm