Ivory, pupils made of black horn
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1911)
Signature ‘Ikko’ on the base
Detailed, elaborated surface
Fine carving
Black highlighted eyes
Himotoshi on the base and on the side
Beautiful patina
Length: 4.5 cm
Good condition
Provenance: Private collection Cologne
Figurative crafted katabori netsuke of a toad, a symbol of long life and wisdom
This item can only be delivered to an address within the EU

This detailed netsuke was hand carved from one piece of ivory and dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1911). The katabori netsuke has the shape of a seated toad with a richly detailed surface. The eyes are with black horn and the face has a slightly humorous expression. The toad is in Asia a symbol of long life, old age and wisdom. On the base and on the side the himotoshi are visible and the signature ‘Ikko’ can be seen underneath.



The netsuke is in good condition with slight signs of age and wear, such as small drying cracks. The length measures 4.5 cm.



Japanese Netsuke

Japanese netsuke are small carvings hung on cords as counterweights to the sagemono (‘hanging container’) that were attached to the belt of kimonos, which would otherwise have no pockets. This enabled the wearer to carry small objects like pipes, tobacco, money or other personal belongings. Netsuke were initially made of root wood, but later included ivory, whale and walrus tusk, boxwood, bamboo and stag horn. Netsuke were often mythologically significant. The motif of the ‘Seven Lucky Gods’ was particularly popular, but animals, flowers, fruits and other everyday objects were also carved. Netsuke originated in the late 17th century with the rise of the middle class and remained in use until the 1880s, when the kimono began to go out of style as an everyday item of clothing.

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