This is a signed kozuka by Hamano Noriyuki, a master craftsman of the Hamano school.
The most striking highlight of this piece is the masterful depiction of the moment when the beast-like figure encounters wisdom. With wide-open eyes, the expression captures a fleeting instant where astonishment and awakening intertwine. This moment is rendered with remarkable depth and vitality through nikuaibori (high-relief carving), demonstrating a refined fusion of realism and narrative—hallmarks of the Hamano school.
Every detail—from the facial expressions and the tension in the fingers to the flowing drapery—has been meticulously carved. Gold inlay (kin-zgan) is effectively applied as an accent, enhancing both contrast and elegance. In particular, the interaction of gazes and the density of composition reveal Noriyuki’s exceptional compositional skill.
Hamano Noriyuki was an Edo-period metal artist active in the mid-Edo era. He studied under Hamano Masayuki, the founder of the Hamano school, and established his own distinctive style characterized by expressive high-relief carving. His name is also well known through the rakugo story “Hamano Noriyuki,” which contributed to his lasting reputation among the people of Edo.
This work is an excellent embodiment of Noriyuki’s artistry— a refined expression of realism, narrative, and psychological depth captured in a single moment.
Condition Showing age-appropriate wear No major damage or fatal flaws; suitable for appreciation and collection
Notes
Starting from 1 yen to encourage broad interest. However, the listing may be withdrawn if the bidding does not reach a satisfactory level. Private sale; anonymous shipping will be used.
如因下列事件引致運送過程中導致貨品毀損、延遲,Jumppoint 皆不負任何責任︰
i. 包裝不穩固或未作加強而引致有破裂、毀損;
ii. 貨品性質為易燃、爆炸、發霉、腐壞、變色等;
iii. 易碎物品沒有標貼上「易碎標籤」;
iv. 無法預知或不可抗力因素,如交通事故、惡劣天氣情況等引起之阻礙或延遲;
v. 收件人聯絡電話不正確或無效等等。