Netsuke ID

I'm pretty sure this is old and carved. Does the hole in the bottom point to it being bone? I've not been able to pinpoint the signature???

Any thoughts?

 

Could you try taking some photos that are well-lit, in focus and closer to it? The second image in particular is very dark and blurred so it's hard to see material details.

 

And remember to post your photographs as Full Image instead of Thumbnail so they're easier for everyone to see. And do tell us where you found your item and what you were told about it.

Debora

 

Given the simplicity of the carving my guess is bone, but am waiting for better photos.

Photos closer to the netsuke, please. So more netsuke and less background.

 

I'm a horrible photographer but I've tried more and closer pictures. Thanks for any help!

 

Given the basic shape, and the hole on the bottom, it might be the tip of a deer antler. How big is it? Another alternative could be a small sperm whale tooth.

 

It's just a little over two inches tall.

I know little about it. Hubby and I bought it on our honeymoon (40 years ago) at an antique store in Duluth, MN.

 

Not elephant ivory for sure. I don't think it's bone either.

 

I don't see Schreger lines on ivory or the dots you see on bone. So hard to tell by photos.

 

It is known as a NLO - Netsuke Like Object, Chinese carved tourist item. Regardless of the material it has little value.