Japanese Carved Netsuke Dutchman
Readying For Supper Signature:
Masatsugu, Circa: Showa, 1900S' H.
3.75 in.(2.5cm), W. 1 in.(2.5cm), D. 1 in.(2.5cm)
Condition: excellent! This
boxwood netsuke depicts a tall and lanky Dutchmen, dressed in long coat with simple
design motifs, holding a large dinning knife in his left hand, and in his right
hand a napkin held closed to his belly, bulging eyes, large nose and full lips,
his face is framed by a stylized wig, with shoulders slightly hunched forward
in anticipation for supper. Some netsuke scholars speculate that many of the designs
of Europeans were copied not from live models but from ornamental figures that
appeared on the stern and bow of European ships during the early 17th century.
In addition, stag antler netsuke of foreigners are amongst the oldest of netsuke
to be produced in great quantities, as they became a kind of a souvenir for those
who traveled to Nagasaki during the western blackout years, hoping to catch a
glimpse of one these Dutch traders. Here we have the glimpse in boxwood with an
attractive patina. Signed on the Dutchman's clog: Masatsugu.
Estimated
Value: $300
• [ MAKE INQUIRY ] •
text/call: 510-556-3555
| |