Japanese Jurojin Netsuke
DateEdo Period, possibly late 18th century
Object NameNetsuke
Mediumwood
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (Height x Width x Depth): 20 × 30 × 30mm
AcquisitionBequeathed in 1928 by Miss Ann Reid.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082616
About MeThis carved wooden netsuke depicts the god of Longevity (Jurojin) seated on a peach with a scroll in his hands which is said to contain the secret of longevity. Jurojin is one of seven gods or deities known as the Shichifukujin. The seven deities of good fortune also include Ebisu god of fishermen and good fortune; Daikokuten god of earth and prosperity, depicted with a magic mallet; Benzaiten goddess of music and the arts, depicted with a mandolin; Hotei god of happiness, depicted with a large belly, a bag of food and treasure, with small children at his feet; Fukurokuju god of wisdom, depicted with a white beard, cane and scroll said to contain all the wisdom of the world and Bishamonten god of treasure and war, depicted wearing armour.
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.
Qing Dynasty, possibly 19th century
Qing Dynasty, possibly 19th century
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period, 1736 - 1795
Jugyoku
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Qing Dynasty, late 19th century
Qing Dynasty, Jiaqing Period, 1796-1820
