Width: 4cms
Height: 5cms
Date: Circa 1880
£1,250
Product Code: KPNE22
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An amusing boxwood Netsuke depicting Shoki (the Demon Queller). He is leaning over a rice barrel trying to fasten the lid and upon closer inspection, you can see the ghastly face of an Oni desperately trying to escape.
From our collection of Meiji-era (1868 – 1912) boxwood Netsuke and Okimono, this is another great example of late 19th Century Japanese craftsmanship, creativity and imagination.
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Shoki (Zhong Kui)
Shoki the demon Queller is a hugely popular figure in Oriental mythology, as he is believed to be able to vanquish ghosts and demons, He is originally a Chinese deity and was first popularised in Japan during the Edo period (1603 – 1868) to this day, his image is often painted on gates and doors to fend off evil spirits.
Oni
The oni is a popular antagonist in Japanese folk tales, they are a type of yokai (supernatural being) and resemble the troll or ogre of western fairy tales. They are usually red, blue or green with large teeth and horns and wear tiger skin loincloths or shorts and sometimes carry large spiked clubs. Historically oni were the souls of the dead who had been wicked in life, it was their job to torment the souls as wardens of Hell. During the Meiji period Oni sometimes take on a more comical function in stories, this has developed further in modern times with some oni losing their wickedness altogether and becoming a protective symbol of good luck.
If a child misbehaves in Japan sometimes they will be called a child of an Oni, and the popular game ‘It’ or ‘Tag’ is called Oni in Japan.
Netsuke
A netsuke is essentially a toggle, used to prevent an object (usually an inro) from slipping through the obi (kimono belt). A cord is passed through the himotoshi (two small holes on the netsuke or a natural hole formed by a leg or arm of the piece) the other end tied to a container containing money, herbs or tobacco. The cord is then passed through the obi with the netsuke resting above it and the container below.
Netsuke have evolved from being utilitarian objects to miniature sculptures of great beauty and craftsmanship. Subjects they depict wide ranging and are an important record of Japanese life and folklore.
We completely understand that purchasing art and antiques online is a relatively new concept to many people, so our team will be very happy to provide additional information and support along the way.
We are members of BADA, LAPADA and CINOA, working closely with these associations and we are very proud of our reputation as one of the most established, valued and trusted dealers of Japanese and Chinese Art and Antiques in the industry.
Our galleries in Islington are open Monday through to Saturday (from 1030 to 1630) by appointment only. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
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