Netsuke - Lotus Flower With Movable Seeds And Insect - Carved Boxwood - Japan - Edo Period

Edo period (1603-1868)

Japan

Charming netsuke in finely carved boxwood depicting a lotus capsule laden with seeds, paired with a large curled leaf animated by an insect. The artist skilfully exploits the natural volumes of the subject to create a compact, lively composition, characteristic of Japanese netsuke art.

The realistically rendered lotus capsule presents its seeds in relief, while an insect unfurls on the ribbed leaf that partially envelops the composition. The naturalistic treatment of the decoration is in keeping with the Edo period's taste for subjects drawn from nature, observed with precision but interpreted with a decorative sensibility peculiar to Japanese craftsmen.

In Far Eastern symbolism, the lotus is associated with purity, rebirth and spiritual awakening. Its abundant seeds also evoke fertility, prosperity and continuity of lineage. The presence of the insect reinforces this evocation of the living world and the natural cycle.

A remarkable feature of this example, the seeds are mobile and produce a slight clicking sound when the netsuke is handled. This technical refinement testifies to the sculptor's skill and further accentuates the naturalistic character of the composition.

The reverse is pierced with the himotoshi allowing the passage of the cord intended to hang the netsuke from the kimono belt.

Beautiful honey-brown patina acquired through handling.

Condition: slight wear from use and fine natural boxwood cracks. Nice old patina. Very good condition.

Dimensions: Height 3 cm.

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