Lot 89: A rectangular black lacquer kogo and cover By Uematsu Hobi (1872-1933), Taisho/Showa Period

By Uematsu Hobi (1872-1933), Taisho/Showa Period
The cover decorated in high relief with a toro (praying mantis) in mother-of-pearl, its legs of silvered metal and the antennae gilt, the interior of the box and cover lacquered in gold takamakie with stylised fern on a fundame ground, the rims of silvered metal, unsigned; with tomobako titled toro and signed by the artist Furosai shujin with seal Hobi. 2.2cm x 7.6cm x 5.7cm (7/8in x 3in x 2¼in). (3).

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Furosai is the art name Uematsu Hobi used early in his career; compare with a similar design by the artist of a praying mantis on top of an aubergine on a writing box, illustrated by Jan Dees, Facing Modern Times - The Revival of Japanese Lacquer Art 1890-1950, March 2007, p.236, no.216.