NETSUKE
Netsuke (pronounced net' skee or net'skae) is a combination of two Japanese words: ne meaning root, and tsuke to fasten. Miniature sculpturing developed as an art form in Japan during the Tokugawa and Meiji periods (1603-1912). Netsuke were carved out of elephant, hippo, boar and occasionally even walrus ivory obtained from Russia. They were also carved out of wood, coral, bone or stone. They were beautiful as well as functional serving as a decorative toggle. Kimonos had no pockets, so men hung their pipes, bags, purses (inro) or tobacco pouches from the kimono's sash (obi). Netsuke have 2 holes because they were threaded on the cords at opposite ends of these hanging objects to keep the cord from slipping out of the sash.
A netsuke's design was according to personal taste, usually an animal, mythical creatures, a god or person, whatever the owner delighted in. The art of netsuke carving is still alive in Japan and China although no elephant ivory netsuke have been allowed into the U.S. since the June 9th 1989 elephant ivory import ban.
All of the netsuke we offer are signed. Most have inlaid black onyx eyes and are genuine ivory. Some are bone, wood or ivory nut and are listed as such. Sizes range from about 1-1/4" to 2 1/2" tall (smaller netsuke are generally lower priced). Nearly all of our animal netsuke have inlaid sparkling black onyx eyes (which gives them life and character) and the human figure netsuke have colorful etched designs on their clothing. Both of these accent techniques are traditional although rarely seen in common netsuke because of the difficulty involved in proper execution. Netsuke with these features are sought after by knowledgeable collectors who appreciate quality.
If you order netsuke and we are temporarily out of stock on any of your selections, we will ship what we have and back-order the rest. IF PREPAID: we will automatically ship the back orders (generally in 3-8 weeks). IF NOT PREPAID: we'll notify you when we can ship and you can let us know if you want the piece(s) at that time. Credit card orders will not be charged for back orders until they are shipped to you and we do not charge shipping on back orders. Please give second choices if possible to help avoid back orders, or ask about any suitable new designs that we've acquired that might be an appropriate alternative. Let us know of any large pieces you are searching for. We frequently are offered ivory chess and Ma Jong sets as well as large Emperor and Empress carvings, Foo Dogs, Kwan Yen, Mystery Balls, elephant and village (tusk) bridges. If you are interested in larger ivory pieces, please inquire. We have many inro and netsuke not shown here. Call with your interests for photocopies of current stock. (DEALERS request our "Netsuke Story Card" for your display.)
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BOONE TRADING COMPANY 1-800-423-1945