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Netsuke

19th century (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

The netsuke is a toggle. Japanese men used netsuke to suspend various pouches and containers from their sashes by a silk cord. Netsuke had to be small and not too heavy, yet bulky enough to do the job. They needed to be compact with no sharp protruding edges, yet also strong and hardwearing. Above all they had to have the means of attaching the cord. In this example, there are a pair of holes (himotoshi) on the bottom of the sandal. Although netsuke were made in a variety of forms, the most widely appreciated is the katabori (shape carving). This is a three-dimensional carving, such as this netsuke.
The shibayama design with inlaid materials creates a netsuke with both vibrant colouration and intricate detailing.


Object details

Category
Object type
Materials and techniques
Carved ivory inlaid with ivory and mother of pearl
Brief description
Ivory netsuke with coral and mother-of-pearl decoration, with a design of a badger disguised as a teamaster, signed by Shibayama Yasunobu, 19th century
Physical description
Ivory netsuke with coral and mother-of-pearl decoration, with a design of a badger disguised as a teamaster, signed by Shibayama Yasunobu, 19th century
Dimensions
  • Length: 3.65cm
  • Width: 3.65cm
Content description
badger, teamaster, tanuki, tea kettle
Marks and inscriptions
(Signed by Shibayama Yoshinobu)
Credit line
Given by Mrs Fox
Summary
The netsuke is a toggle. Japanese men used netsuke to suspend various pouches and containers from their sashes by a silk cord. Netsuke had to be small and not too heavy, yet bulky enough to do the job. They needed to be compact with no sharp protruding edges, yet also strong and hardwearing. Above all they had to have the means of attaching the cord. In this example, there are a pair of holes (himotoshi) on the bottom of the sandal. Although netsuke were made in a variety of forms, the most widely appreciated is the katabori (shape carving). This is a three-dimensional carving, such as this netsuke.
The shibayama design with inlaid materials creates a netsuke with both vibrant colouration and intricate detailing.
Collection
Accession number
A.85-1915

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Record createdJune 25, 2009
Record URL
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