What kind of carving is a netsuke made of?
Netsuke (‘netskei) is a small carving usually made from wood or ivory and originally developed in Japan. This form of small sculpture served as toggle in Japan for over a period of more than three hundred years, for both functional and aesthetic…
Who is the best carver of netsuke in Australia?
Susan Wraight is an internationally renowned carver of netsuke, a traditional Japanese artform. Her exquisite miniature carvings have won awards and worldwide acclaim with the result that her work is held in numerous collections. This story is republished from Australian Wood Review, issue 20, September, 1998.
How big is the base of a netsuke?
A fine three-case lacquered inro with a carved money netsuke circa 19th century (late Edo to early Meiji period). On facade, gold and silver maki-e technique was masterfully used to Vintage carved bovine set of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods with an elegantly carved wood base. Measure: 18″.
Where did the Japanese art form netsuke come from?
Netsuke, Japanese handcarved art form originated in century to carry small items on cords. Netsuke, Japanese handcarved art form originated in century to carry small items on cords. A netsuke depicting a pair of rabbits. From the collection of the Asian Art Musuem of San Francisco. Netsuke Dark and Light Bunny Figurine.
What kind of materials are used for Netsuke carving?
Just like any form of sculpting, netsuke carving is starts with natural materials – most commonly boxwood or ivory – and creating the desired shape using various knives and chisels. The shape itself was often themed around folklore, the zodiac, traditional arts like noh theatre, or natural and spiritual imagery.
Susan Wraight is an internationally renowned carver of netsuke, a traditional Japanese artform. Her exquisite miniature carvings have won awards and worldwide acclaim with the result that her work is held in numerous collections. This story is republished from Australian Wood Review, issue 20, September, 1998.
What kind of Netsuke are made in Japan?
Manju, which are usually round and can be made as one piece or made in two halves. Ryusa, which are also round but carved to resemble lace. Kagamibuta, which are round but have beautifully wrought mirror lids.
How long does it take to make a netsuke?
The process of carving a single netsuke could take several weeks, especially if the netsuke has a human visage. Carving was done by hand, by a master carver, and once completed a wooden netsuke would usually be coated in lacquer to ensure it would be preserved and could be worn daily for years to come.
