Antique
Japanese Stag Antler Netsuke
Blindman
Scratching
Itchy Back
Signature: Unsigned.
Circa: early 19th Century
H
2.2 in.(3cm), W 1 in.(2.5cm), D 0.75 in.(2cm)
Condition: hairlines and minor age crack! Of
all the aspects of netsuke, we frequently assert that artistry is the supreme
value. Although many works share subject matter and even depiction, truly fine
artistry is distinguished from good workmanship in a piece such as this beautiful
stag antler carving. The material is hard and dense, with an enamel surface that
polishes to a luster in cream white tones. The gloss and enamel of this work combine
to produce a translucent reflective edge which appears both warm and cool when
turned in the hand. Because of its usage through the ages, some surface motifs
have worn down, leaving only the vital lines, or “dragon lines” which are the
support of the design to stand out in simplicity. The beauties of this work are
many; the eloquent play of lines in motion over the straw woven pants, and crosshatching
patterns on the garment, tail with flowing parallel lines and the crossed beam
from the walking stick; with
every line and shape related to every other line and curve. The sense of aliveness
is emphasized in the blindman's facial expressions. From every angle, it's a work
of art both pleasing and surprising; the deft handling of the levels of relief,
in which volume is achieved through slight variations in depth; the humorous rendering
of the back-scratching and broken teeth made even the age cracks in this netsuke
delightful.
Private Collection |  |
