Lot 24: Two boxwood netsuke of a hatching bird and a fox with cubs By Jack Coutu (1924-2017), English, the first carved November 1978, the second carved October 1973

Two boxwood netsuke of a hatching bird and a fox with cubs
By Jack Coutu (1924-2017), English, the first carved November 1978, the second carved October 1973The first a small bird levering itself out of its speckled egg, a silver feather applied at the back with a loop cord attachment, the eyes inlaid in amber and gold leaf, signed on a silver tablet JC, 5cm (2in) long; the second a seated fox, leaning forward, protecting two cubs beneath its jaw, the eyes inlaid in red glass, signed on a silver tablet JC, 6cm (2 3/8in) long. (2).

Sold together with Jack Coutu's reference cards, the first (no.69) stating: 'The photograph (on the card) looks rather curious with the egg standing on end. Its natural position would be on its side. Since I had to use photographs and my knowledge of young birds I cannot verify the authenticity of this piece though it has certain aspects which I like. I don't like the glare of the silver eyes and am trying to tone them down. October 1994. Removed the silver eyes and replaced them with amber eyes backed with goldleaf[sic]. Also coloured the silver leaf on underside with ammonium sulphide. The colour is now blue and copper, but will it last!'The second (no.33) stating: 'One of my favourite pieces in spite of its size, more in the nature of an okimono. Probably the most time consuming piece I have carved and perhaps rather a "frontal view" piece with various imperfections but worth the effort. It was taken from a photograph taken at night and the red eyes seemed appropriate.'