We believe that the two boys belong together as we acquired them as a set in the early 1970’s. At that time ivory carvings were still available without restrictions. The carving of the kimono-clad boys is superb. One holds a Noh Mask in his hands. Noh is a form of theater which dates back to the 14th century. The players wear masks which tell the audience what kind of character is being portrayed. Frequently used masks represent demons and spirits, as well as women and men of various ages. The other boy holds a kind of paddle and kneels behind a low table on which another paddle rests. We have not been able to find out what the paddles are for. Is the boy perhaps playing a referee at some kind of game? The boys were carved by the same Chinese master and date from the 1960’s or 1970’s. Heights 4.0 and 5.1 cm. Widths 3,7 and 4.1 cm. Depth 4.7 and 3.6 cm.