JAPAN 1880 Meiji Period Carved Wood Netsuke Of A Seated Monkey With Onyx Eyes
A Japanese Meiji period netsuke.
This is an exceptional antique Japanese netsuke, masterfully carved during the Meiji period, circa 1880–1890. Finely sculpted in precious wood, the netsuke depicts a monkey resting gracefully within the branches of a bamboo tree, demonstrating the remarkable carving skills and naturalistic sensibility characteristic of Meiji-period kōgei. The composition is beautifully rendered with careful attention to the monkey's anatomy, expressive features, and the organic structure of the bamboo. The intricate carving and compact sculptural form demonstrate the virtuosity expected of fine Japanese netsuke, objects that were both functional accessories and miniature works of art. The netsuke retains its original aged patina, developed naturally over more than a century, enhancing the warmth, depth, and authenticity of the wood. Its well-preserved condition and charming subject make it particularly appealing to 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 tradition, the monkey also occupied a complex symbolic position, appearing both as a mischievous folkloric figure and, in certain Shinto traditions, as a mediator or intermediary between the human and divine worlds. A highly collectible Meiji-period netsuke, this charming miniature sculpture would make an exceptional addition to a collection of Japanese art, netsuke, antique works of art, or fine decorative objects, and would be equally compelling displayed within 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 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, 1880-1890.
Technique: Carved and polished wood and black onyx.
Weight: 8.95 Grams, (5.75 Dwt.).
Measurements: 45 mm by 41 mm by 23 mm (1.77 x 1.61 x 0.91 Inches).
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 wood-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: D090726TENH/.5543
