18c netsuke KIYOHIME turning into DRAGON

Description

Late 18th to early 19th century boxwood netsuke of Kiyohime turning into a dragon and wrapped around the bell of Dojoji. Kiyohime was a daughter of an innkeeper whose advances on a monk were not reciprocated, so her love turned into wrath transforming her into a dragon, she trapped him under the bell in the Dojoji temple and melted the bell killing the monk. Strong early carving, wonderful mad face, beautiful wear and patina. Height 1.82 inches.

Reserve: $475.00

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18c netsuke KIYOHIME turning into DRAGON

Lot 0075

Estimate $550-$700

Feb 3, 2026, 7:37 PM EST

Starting Price

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$220

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