

Japanese Netsuke
Vintage Japanese Japanese Netsuke | Daruma with Pop-Out eyes
Age:Postwar Showa Period (1940)
Descriptive qualities& condition:
Dimensions: 1-3/4”h x 1-1-1/2” dia.
Many netsuke take the shape of various aspects of Japanese culture within the shinto faith in the effigy of Bodhidharma (Daruma), a monk who began the Zen school of Buddhism in China and Japan. One of the most prominent examples is this carved Ironwood Netsuke, (Katabori three-dimensional carving) with full details of the face and monastic hooded robe of this infamous figure. It further incorporates modeled antler horn eyes that extend from the sockets when tilted. His face has a stern and penetrating stare. The back has a carved monogram that says Ki kuro. There are Himotoshi openings on the bottom to attach to a cord for wearing with the Obi and associated pouch. Next to the Himotoshi is a monogram horn disc that possibly reads Niizuma. The piece comes with a small carved rosewood stand for display purposes.
Additional Information: As the kimono, the traditional form of Japanese dress, had no pockets, the Japanese men suspended small items they needed to take with them, such as tobacco pouches, pipes, and writing implements on a silk cord that held a netsuke which and stopped the pouch from slipping off the sash.
Originally, the netsuke (toggle) was made from found objects such as roots or shells, which were selected for their aesthetic appeal, but over time, the toggle developed as an art form. Many fine carvers devoted themselves to netsuke carving, but the demand was so great, that other artisan took up their manufacture. While ivory and wood were the most commonly used material, netsuke was also made from bone, metal, and other materials available in the various regions of Japan. The custom of wearing netsuke flourished in Japan for more than three centuries - from around 1600 to the mid-19th century, but the golden age of the netsuke is considered to be from 1800 to 1850.
Condition: Exceptional condition exhibiting an aged patination and meticulous care, no damage, with minimal imperfections related to daily use. “As is” means the object has not been restored and retains the original craftsmanship with slight age deterioration.