Netsuke trace their roots all the way back to the 17^th century and near the end of the 19^th century became very popular in Europe. Netsuke actually served two purposes—functional and artistic. The literal translation of netsuke is “to attach the root”. The conventional Japanese kimono had no pockets in which to carry small essential items. These items were carried in containers called sagemono that were attached to two long double strings and pulled through the obi (the broad sash worn around the kimono).

 The containers may have been leather pouches, which typically would be used for tobacco; but the most popular was inro, small, beautifully designed boxes, with three or five compartments, mostly used to hold medicines. Occasionally, both of these containers would be carried together, suspended from the same netsuke, which is a fastener or toggle. This carved toggle had two small holes called himotoshi, through which the strings are threaded and would secure the container in place. Strung on a cord between the sagemono and the netsuke, was an ojime, or sliding bead, made to loosen and tighten the opening of the sagemono.

Netsuke could be crafted from a wide variety of materials, mostly from ivory and wood, but also from bone, tortoise shell, metal, horn and precious stones. Often, the material of the netsuke could be the indication of an individual’s social status within the community. Despite the small size of the netsuke, one to two inches, there is incredible detailing and workmanship. The Japanese will use fables, religion and everyday life experiences as their muse for these fascinating toggles.

This magnificent netsuke you see here is post 1940 and is one of several different types called the katabori, which is a fully-carved, three-dimensional, superior work of art. This stunning netsuke is made of alabaster stone, with two small himotoshi and is in great condition. A proud, menacing cobra, with its hood flared seems to be a favorite image for Japanese art forms. This is possibly an Asian cobra, whose hood is larger in size than the king cobra, is thinner and tan in color. The cobra faces forward and a large portion of its body is coiled in front of its head, where the scales and segments of the snake are in full view. The body of the cobra is wound around broken off bamboo shoots that are of a light green tint. The cobra’s piercing eyes seem to follow you, mesmerizing in its irresistible quality. The carver, or netsukeshi, has signed his work on the bottom. This breathtaking netsuke is of exceptional, meticulous craftsmanship that will make a captivating and delightful addition to your collection.

Japanese Cobra Netsuke…An Enchanting Miniature Work of Art! is a post from: Japanese Antiquities

If you are not familiar with Japanese Samurai swords and their congruent parts, a tsuba is the protective hand guard mounted on a sword that slips on over the central tang of the blade. It has many functions, such as: being a counterbalance to the weight of the sword blade; preventing the user’s hand from sliding onto the sword’s blade, when thrusting; represent the beliefs, tastes and social standing of the owner and to protect the user’s hand from the blade of an opponent, to some extent. A tsuba in its basic form can be a plain, undecorated plate, but most are embellished with surface texturing, inlay/overlay of various types of metal and cut-out openwork or Sukashi, which also means ‘in silhouette’. Tsuba may be constructed from various materials that include “soft” metals, like copper and its alloys (bronze, brass and others); gold silver, leather, iron, etc.

Namban or Nanban tsuba is a type of style that has found its way to Japan from China, or by the East Indian route and gained popularity. In other words, it is a style with foreign influence in its design. These tsuba are almost always constructed of iron and have undercut scrollwork that may incorporate dragons, with the tama jewel or other creatures. Here is a helpful tip concerning the cleaning of your tsuba. Never clean it with metal polish because it will remove the patina and destroy the tsuba’s beauty and value. The spectacular Japanese tsuba featured here is antique iron Namban, possibly from the Edo era, which is 18^th to 19^th century. Its impressive stats are as follows: length is 7.0cm, width is 6.55cm, thickness is 0.5cm and weight is 82g. This phenomenal tsuba is maru gata, or round, in shape and the Sukashi is of a gorgeous twin dragon design. This incredible antique, iron Japanese Namban tsuba is a true work of art in its own right and would be an asset to any collection!

Own A Remarkable Piece Of Culture With An Antique Namban Tsuba For A Japanese Samurai Sword! is a post from: Japanese Antiquities