Mid 20th Century Ooak Japanese Yamanaka Lacquer, Round Box/Added Dragon/Ruby Gem

Details

Description

The Vintage piece of Yamanaka lacquerware started out without the Japanese Dragon Netsuke. After removing the top "button", I replaced … Read more The Vintage piece of Yamanaka lacquerware started out without the Japanese Dragon Netsuke. After removing the top "button", I replaced it with the intricately carved little dragon which began its life as a vintage Netsuke.
A netsuke (pronounced net-skeh) is a miniature sculpted toggle from 17th-century Japan. Because traditional kimonos had no pockets, men suspended personal items—like tobacco pouches or medicine cases (inrō)—from cords tucked behind their sashes (obi). Netsuke acted as functional counterweights to keep the cords from slipping.
During the Edo period (1615–1868), netsuke transitioned from simple, functional toggles into highly coveted, ornate fashion accessories. Because wealthy merchants were forbidden by strict sumptuary laws to wear conspicuous jewelry or lavish fabrics, they poured their wealth into commissioning incredibly detailed, miniature works of art.
With the Netsuke tradition in mind, I carved into the head, creating a marquis shape cavity and set a natural Marquis Ruby. I added extra Urishi clear lacquer to match the lacquered box. The lidded round box was created in Yamanaka Onsen, a hot spring area in Kaga.
Yamanaka lacquerware is a traditional Japanese craft with approximately 450 years of history, carefully handed down through generations.
This piece was carved from a single block of wood. The carving is beautifully executed, showcasing extremely refined craftsmanship. While preserving the natural texture of the wood, it is also very functional for storing precious items or keepsakes.
Japanese dragons, known as ryū or tatsu , are large, wingless, serpentine water deities deeply tied to rain, bodies of water, and natural forces.
Wisdom and Strength are what they embody-cosmic knowledge, supreme power, and protection against evil or misfortune.
Diameter is 6.5 inches and the height is 4 inches. Like you, there is only one. See less