Japanese Frog Netsuke
DateMeiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Object NameNetsuke
Mediumwood
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (Height x Width x Depth): 25 × 35 × 80mm
AcquisitionBequeathed in 1928 by Miss Ann Reid.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082615
About MeA wooden netsuke carved in the form of a small frog sitting on what looks like a flattened gourd. Miniature carving is arguably one of the most charming art forms to come out of Japan. The best known of and most avidly collected is the netsuke, which are commonly made from ivory, but also wood or bone. Because the traditional Japanese kimono did not feature any pockets personal items that needed to be carried were hung off the obi (broad sash), which held the kimono together.Objects were placed in an inro or a gourd suspended from a cord that was passed under the sash and secured by the netsuke, which is essentially a toggle stopping the items from slipping off the obi.
In Japanese culture the frog is seen as good luck. Netsuke like this one would have been worn as charm by travellers, especially if they were crossing water.
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, late 19th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Meiji period (1868-1912)
James Cromar Watt
Ming Dynasty, Yongle Period, 1402 - 1424
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, Jiaqing Period, 1796-1820
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty 18th - 19th century
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
