I did not bid either, but actually think the prices were overly reflective of quality with some deviations on both ends. Most of it was clearly post-Meiji stuff anyway. I was actually quite surprised with fairly high final prices of the ebony cockerel "signed Okatomo" and of the unsigned ivory diver with octopus, as signatures believed to be authentic have clearly driven the prices this time.

Congratulations Alan! Those were probably the best buys of that auction!

For a collector who is interested in a variety of legends/subjects and materials these sales present an opportunity to add some depth to a collection without breaking the bank. Collecting these doesn't keep one from also buying better pieces. My son liked the subject and feel of the worn antler Fukurokuju that was included with the sneezer, so he too it home with him Sunday evening (he's now living in the SF area so will get an education soon...wish he had been able to attend the session we had that afternoon with Gleeson and CalBear).