JAPAN 1875 Meiji Period Carved Netsuke Of A Walking Monkey With Her Young
A Japanese Meiji period netsuke.
This is an exceptional antique Japanese netsuke, masterfully carved during the Meiji period, circa 1880–1890. The netsuke is finely sculpted and depicts a walking monkey with her young, beautifully capturing the tender relationship between mother and child while demonstrating the remarkable carving skills and naturalistic sensibility characteristic of Meiji-period kōgei. The composition is masterfully rendered with careful attention to the monkeys’ anatomy, expressive faces, fur, and intertwined forms. The compact yet highly detailed carving exemplifies the extraordinary virtuosity associated with fine Japanese netsuke, objects that served both as functional accessories and as miniature works of art. The netsuke retains its original aged patina, naturally developed over more than a century, lending the wood exceptional warmth, depth, and character. Its well-preserved condition and charming subject further enhance its desirability for collectors of Japanese antiques and miniature sculpture.
Monkey imagery held an important and multifaceted place in Japanese art and culture. During the Meiji period, monkeys appeared frequently in netsuke, bronzes, ceramics, and other decorative arts, where they could be associated with good fortune, prosperity, protection, and longevity. Within Japanese folklore and religious traditions, the monkey also occupied a complex symbolic position, appearing both as a playful or mischievous folkloric figure and, in certain Shinto traditions, as a mediator between the human and divine worlds. A highly collectible Meiji-period netsuke, this charming miniature sculpture is an exceptional example of Japanese craftsmanship and would make a distinguished addition to a collection of Japanese art, netsuke, antique works of art, or fine decorative objects, while displaying beautifully in a personal bijouterie or curiosity cabinet.
Netsuke
A netsuke is a small sculpture which developed as an art form in Japan over a period of more than three hundred years. Netsuke originally served both functional and aesthetic purposes, but in modern times they have become extremely collectable. Netsuke served as anchors or counterweights for inrô and Sagemono. A single cord was threaded through a cord channel on one side of the suspended container, through two holes (himotoshi) in the netsuke, then through the other side of the container, and knotted on the underside of the container.
Meiji Imperial Period
This is an era of Japanese history that extended from October 23, 1868 to July 30, 1912.The Meiji era was the first half of the Empire of Japan, when the Japanese people moved from being an isolated feudal society at risk of colonization by Western powers to the new paradigm of a modern, industrialized nation state and emergent great power, influenced by Western scientific, technological, philosophical, political, legal, and aesthetic ideas. As a result of such wholesale adoption of radically different ideas, the changes to Japan were profound, and affected its social structure, internal politics, economy, military, and foreign relations. The period corresponded to the reign of Emperor Meiji. It was preceded by the Keiō era and was succeeded by the Taishō era, upon the accession of Emperor Taishō.
Country: Imperial Japan.
Period: Meiji, 1875-1885.
Technique: Carved and polished.
Weight: 10.2 Grams, (6.55 Dwt.).
Measurements: 27 mm by 38 mm by 16 mm (1.06 x 1.50 x 0.63 Inches).
Signature: Yes, engraved.
Collateral: This Meiji period monkey Netsuke is accompanied by a presentation pouch.
Disclosure Note: This is an antique relics piece, with over 100 years old or more. Originally carved during the Meiji dynasty (1868-1912) in Japan.
Condition: The overall condition of this Monkey netsuke is excellent. Beside the little normal wear there is no damage and all parts are secured. This netsuke was been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D090826JARE/.8868
