Far East, Japan, Edo to Meiji periods, mid to late 19th CE. A nicely rendered plump bullfrog or toad netsuke, carved from boxwood of rich red-brown hues, from the late Edo to Meiji periods, perforated on the underside for suspension. Lovely detailing to the skin. Note the contrasting smooth skin and the stippling surrounding each leg. In Japan, frogs are particularly auspicious amphibians, believed to bring about rain, fertility, and good fortune. In addition, the Japanese word for frog "kaeru" means "to return." Extrapolating from this, the frog implies many happy returns as well as a safe return journey. Size: 2.5" L x 1.75" W x 1.25" H (6.4 cm x 4.4 cm x 3.2 cm).
The traditional kimono had no pockets. While women could tuck away small personal items in their sleeves, men suspended their treasured possessions (tobacco pouches, pipes, purses or writing implements and the like) called sagemono on a silk cord, hanging from their obi (sash).
In order to stop the cord from slipping through the obi, a small toggle called a netsuke was attached.
Provenance: Ex-Paul & Louise Bernheimer collection, Cambridge, MA and Laguna Woods, CA.
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品相报告
Hairline fissure through wood between perforations and upon the back. Otherwise excellent.