Netsuke of Shoki Capturing an Oni

This ivory netsuke features Shoki, the Chinese-style demon hunter, dressed in ornate robes with swirling cloud patterns and wearing a traditional cap. He is hunched forward, pinning a small, horned oni to the ground with his hands. The carving highlights the contrast between Shoki's stern, focused facial expression and the diminutive, chaotic nature of the trapped demon. The material has a warm, cream-colored patina, with dark ink staining used to emphasize the intricate details of the robes, the figures' hair, and the oni's features.

Shoki is a legendary figure based on the Chinese deity Zhong Kui, traditionally believed to have the power to exorcise demons and evil spirits. This imagery is a staple of Edo-period Japanese folklore and protective iconography, often invoked for luck and spiritual safety.