Netsuke de boj tallado del período Meiji, figura humana expresiva con extremidades alargadas, 14.0 cm

Elongated limbs, a lifted chin and a face charged with feeling: this Meiji-period wooden netsuke favors human frailty over ideal beauty. Carved as sagemono culture was nearing its end, it shows how the carvers of the era turned a functional toggle into independent sculpture.

The Piece

This finely carved wooden figure is a Meiji-period interpretation of the netsuke tradition, made in the late functional phase of sagemono culture. While Edo-period netsuke were primarily utilitarian, Meiji examples increasingly emphasized sculptural expressiveness, narrative presence and standalone artistry.

The exaggerated posture, with elongated limbs, raised chin and an emotionally charged facial expression, suggests a deliberate focus on human vulnerability and character rather than idealized form. This aligns with Meiji carvers responding both to domestic collectors and to Western fascination with Japanese figural realism.

Carved from dense hardwood, likely boxwood, the surface carries a warm patina developed through handling and age. Tool marks are subtle yet visible under magnification, indicating hand-carving rather than later mechanical shaping. The rear contour and balance suggest the figure was intended to hang vertically when mounted to an inro or pouch.

Human-form netsuke often depicted everyday townspeople, comic or exaggerated emotional states, or didactic and moral commentary. This example leans toward expressive realism rather than caricature, possibly reflecting Meiji intellectual currents that favored individual psychology and observational detail.

Details

• Era: Meiji period
• Origin: Japan
• Material: Dense hardwood, likely boxwood
• Subject: Expressive human figure
• Measurements: Height approx. 14.0 cm · Width approx. 3.8 cm · Depth approx. 3.5 cm
• Weight: Estimated approx. 120–150 g

Condition

• Very good antique condition, with natural surface wear consistent with age.
• No major cracks or structural repairs observed.
• Patina intact, enhancing sculptural depth; no modern coatings detected.
• Minor abrasions are part of the piece's historical character.

Authenticity & Care

Hand-carving is indicated by subtle tool marks visible under magnification; no modern coatings were detected, and the wood is identified as likely boxwood rather than confirmed. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.

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