Netsuke, wood, dragon in clouds, Japan, 18th century
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
18th century
The netsuke is a toggle. Above all they had to have the means of attaching the cord. This is a three- dimensional carving, such as this netsuke. This example is signed by Masanao Isshinasai.
It is one of a small but distinctive regional group from Yamada, Ise province. They made detailed and realistic netsuke, such as this one. The Masanao line produced a wide range of subjects, but they specialised in animals such as this dragon. This netsuke is very compact showing the complete body of a dragon curled around a cloud with neat rows of scales. The eyes of the dragon are covered in gold to suggest the energy, vibrance and animation of the creature. Netsuke in wood of a dragon in clouds, signed by Masanao Isshinasai
Bequeathed by Mr. George Salting, accessioned in 1910.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Material
- Carved wood
- Dimensions
- Diameter: 4.13 cm
Technical characteristics
- Maker recorded
- Masanao Isshinasai
- Place recorded
- Japan
Identification
- Source note
- Transcribed from the Victoria and Albert Museum, London collection record for this single object (sentences kept verbatim apart from removed sale or rarity wording); how far it represents a wider collectible type has not been independently verified.
- Candidate id
- vam-O492611
- Museum object name
- Netsuke
- Holding institution
- Victoria and Albert Museum, London
- Museum object number
- A.1028-1910
- Museum system number
- O492611
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: confirm the wider type, maker and dating against a specialist reference; this entry documents one recorded example.