Japan, 19th century CE. This is a small flat cylindrical netsuke made of gilded iron, and which is two pieces that are joined together. This shape is called kagami, or mirror-shaped. Carved in low relief on its face is a scene of three birds flying in front of cresting waves; on the back is a much calmer natural scene of a cherry blossom in front of tall mountains. The artwork of this piece is beautiful if you are a nature lover, especially if you enjoy the dramatic Japanese landscape! Size: 1.9" W x 0.6" H (4.8 cm x 1.5 cm).

The netsuke is an example of the art of everyday objects. They are small sculptures designed to be worn so that objects could be suspended from the traditional sash (obi) that wraps around the kimono. They were used to carry purses, smoking accoutrement, and inro, "seal baskets", which held seals and medicines. The netsuke, made with two holes through it, was used as a toggle to stop the cord on which those items were suspended.

Provenance: Ex-Paul and Louise Bernheimer, Cambridge, MA and Laguna Woods, CA; All ivory items in the collection pre-date 1900 and were acquired long before the 1970 ban on ivory trade.

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#111915

Wear and patina; little of the original gilding remains, but some is still clear.