 Netsuke
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The other day while at a friend's house for a party given in honor of
visiting students, one of the guests asked me about netsuke. I have a
great interest in this art form, which dates back over 600 years, so I
began to pass on my little knowledge of its history.
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The netsuke was originally designed to make carrying keys easier and
more comfortable. As you all know, there were no pockets in the old-style
clothing, and keys were very large and heavy. The idea of carrying them
hanging from the obi (sash) on a cord was good, but the cord kept slipping
out of the sash. So, a small piece of wood was attached to the end of
the cord to prevent it from falling. This piece of wood was the first
netsuke. At first the wood may have been a piece of bamboo root, because
of its interesting pattern. Later it was carved into beautiful shapes,
and other kinds of wood and materials such as ivory, bone, coral, and
lacquer were used. The carving, for which Japan is famous, gradually became
more and more intricate and lovely.
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I believe the height of the carving art of netsuke was in the middle
of the Meiji era. In late Meiji, the carving became more and more delicate
and fragile. I am not really fond of that period in netsuke carving. The
pieces are too complicated and not suitable for the purpose for which
they were originally developed. A good netsuke should have no sharp edges
or points. It should be easy to slip under the obi and should fit right
into the hand with warmth and comfort. I love beauty, and if you have
a netsuke, I'd like to see it. Today, they are becoming very rare and
valuable, collectors items!
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