Description

Antique Shunga Mermaid Netsuke in Ironwood

Japanese Edo period (1615 – 1868).

Specifications

✓ Material: Manilkara kauki (Moluccan ironwood)

✓ Size : 4,6 cm x 4,2 cm x 2,5 cm

✓ Signed by the artist

✓ Very detailed craftsmanship ie face, toes, hands, and hair

✓ Shunga netsuke: may depict a male and female in sexual conjugation or may contain only subtle or symbolic erotic references.

Netsukes are miniature sculptures that were introduced in 17th-century Japan to serve a practical function (the two Japanese characters ne+tsuke mean root & to attach).

Traditional Japanese garments – robes called kosode and kimono – had no pockets; however, men who wore them needed a place to store their personal belongings.

Their solution was to place such objects in small containers (called sagemono) hung by cords from the robes&sashes (obi).

Netsuke, like the inro and ojime, evolved over time from being strictly utilitarian into objects of great artistic merit and an expression of extraordinary craftsmanship.

The most beautiful carvings were signed by the master- craftsman.

Netsuke production was most popular during the Edo period in Japan, around 1615-1868.

The most sought-after netsukes are the erotic ones.

The item on sale is in used but flawless condition.