Japanese Rat on a Cushion Netsuke
DateMeiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Object NameNetsuke
Mediumivory
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (Height x Width x Depth): 20 × 50 × 40mm
AcquisitionBequeathed in 1928 by Miss Ann Reid.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS011222
About MeThis carved ivory netsuke is in the form of a rat lying on top of a pillow or cushion but it appears to have got stuck whilst crawling through an opening in the fabric. 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.
The fur of the rat and the folds of the fabric, on this particular netsuke, demonstrate the skill of the artist in the execution of this piece.
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, late 19th century
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 18th - 19th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Edo Period, possibly late 18th century
Jugyoku
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Possibly 19th century
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Qing Dynasty, possibly 19th century
Qing Dynasty, Jiaqing Period, 1796-1820
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, QianlongJaiqing Period, 1796 - 1820
