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Japanese Bone Netsuke with Concealed Dragon and Frog Mask, Edo stock #JWHfgEdoNet
A finely carved Japanese bone netsuke depicting a highly stylized frog (gama) mask, with a horned dragon discreetly concealed as it coils around the reverse of the form. From the front, the piece presents as a compact and expressive frog mask; only when turned does the dragon reveal itself, its scaled body wrapping the perimeter and its head and tail meeting at the back to complete the composition. This type of concealment-based carving reflects a sophisticated approach to netsuke design, where discovery and private amusement were integral to the object’s appeal. The pairing of frog and dragon is symbolically coherent, as both are water-associated beings in Japanese tradition, suggesting transformation, renewal, and controlled power rather than overt narrative action. The abstraction is intentional, with exaggerated features and compressed anatomy shaped to suit daily wear. Carved from bone with warm, even patina and clear evidence of age, the dates circa 1850's, and measures approximately 2 inches long x 1.5 inches deep x 0.5 inches high. Condition is very good, with no cracks, losses, or repairs observed; light surface wear is consistent with age and handling. Signed Mitsuju (光寿) June’s Thoughts What draws me to this netsuke is its restraint. The dragon is not announced—it is discovered. This is the kind of piece that rewards handling rather than display, offering a quiet moment of recognition to its owner rather than spectacle to an onlooker. The carver clearly understood that the pleasure of a netsuke lies as much in what is hidden as in what is seen. |
