Ornament Item Number: Ed5.1444 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Netsuke carved of ivory, light brown, with dark brown incised areas; cylindrical shape, with vertical striations, carved to represent rope bindings in three places. At one side are two holes, through which passes a cord of green/brown braided silk 2.4cm. long (double). At one end of cylinder is carved a rat; diagonally below this near opposite end is a round hole from which can protrude the head of a snake, which moves freely in and out of the hole.
History Of Use
This netsuke is carved in the form of a rice bale. Netsuke were worn by Japanese men from the late 16th to mid-19th centuries, strung on the end of a cord, at the other end of which was attached an inro, smoking accessories, a purse etc. A bead (ojime) was strung on the cord. The cord was put through the wearer's girdle and the netsuke prevented the objects from slipping through.
Cultural Context
worn by men
Item History
- Made in Japan before 1953
- Collected before 1953
- Owned by Marion Stephan
- Owned by Charles H. Stephan before January 10, 1977
- Received from Charles H. Stephan (Donor) on January 10, 1977
What
Who
- Culture
- Japanese
- Previous Owner
- Marion Stephan and Charles H. Stephan
- Received from
- Charles H. Stephan (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Japan
When
- Creation Date
- before 1953
- Collection Date
- before 1953
- Ownership Date
- before January 10, 1977
- Acquisition Date
- on January 10, 1977
Other
- Item Classes
- carvings & sculpture
- Condition
- good
- Current Location
- Case 79
- Accession Number
- 0352/0149