Skip to main content
Japanese Guinea Pigs Netsuke
Japanese Dogs Netsuke
Japanese Guinea Pigs Netsuke
Japanese Guinea Pigs Netsuke

Japanese Dogs Netsuke

DateEdo Period, possibly late 18th century
Object NameNetsuke
Mediumivory and amber
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (Height x Width x Depth): 20 × 35 × 30mm
AcquisitionBequeathed in 1928 by Miss Ann Reid.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS011221
About MeThis carved ivory netsuke is in the form of two dogs with amber eyes and stained bodies to represent fur. The underside of the netsuke features two holes for cord to be threaded through.

Ivory 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. 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.
Japanese Curled Dog Netsuke
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Japanese Dog Netsuke
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Japanese Shishi Dog Netsuke
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Japanese Rat on a Cushion Netsuke
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Ivory and Coral Ruyi Sceptre with Jade Suspension and Wooden Stand
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 18th - 19th century
Japanese Boxing Men Netsuke
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Japanese Snake Coiled on a Hat Netsuke
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Chinese Ivory Framed Fan with Lacquer Box
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
Chinese Carved Fu Lion Dog or Chimera on a Stand
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
Japanese Frog Netsuke
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Japanese Okimono Carving of Man Sharpening Sword
Ichiensai
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Chinese Embroidered Sleeveband with Flowers and Butterflies
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 19th century
Chinese Temple Guard's Helmet
Qing Dynasty, Jiaqing Period, 1796-1820
Chinese Carved Peach on Stand
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 18th century