Japanese Antiquities
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Netsuke – Miniature Mementos of the Past
First created in 17th century Japan, netsuke are small figurines which acted as a clasp on a small box that hung from the sash on mens' kimonos. Due to a lack of pockets, men needed a vessel to carry their personal belongings, such as a pipe, tobacco, medicine or money, in. Sometimes these containers were small pouches or woven baskets, but oftentimes they were exquisitely carved boxes, all of which required a button-like piece to hold shut. Thus, netsuke became another means for Japanese to display artful form within practical function.
Netsuke has long reflected elements of Japanese life and folklore, with the little carved buttons peaking in popularity during the Edo period, 1615-1868. The most common type of netsuke is the 3-dimensional sculpture carved in a rounded shape and standing one to three inches high. Subject matter chosen for netsuke ranges in a variety of human figures, zodiac animals, plants, nuts and mythical creatures. The materials used to create netsuke range widely also, with ivory being the most common until it was made illegal to use the ivory of live animals. Others include types of hardwood, boar tusk, rhinoceros horn, clay, porcelain, woven cane and hippopotamus tooth, the latter of which is used today in ivory's stead.
Have a look through our large collection of netsuke. You may find a rare one carved from ivory, or a more affordable and modern replica with metallic accents. Whatever your treasure hunt for the perfect netsuke provides, you're sure to discover something unique and culturally valuable.
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