A large netsuke/okimono of a ship with Dutchmen
19th century
Carved as a dragon ship with several dutchmen.
H. 6 x L. 10 cm
A total of eight Dutchmen populate this large netsuke of a two-tiered ship with an impressive dragon prow. The front and back show two lookouts, one with a telescope, and the ship is powered by two oarsmen one on each side. The other Dutchmen are relaxing, enjoying themselves while smoking a pipe, except for one who is crawling out of the structure by the bow, with an amusing facial expression. The underside of the ship is decorated with waves and has one central himotoshi. However, because of the size, it may be an okimono rather than a netsuke. The telescope is restored.
Carved as a dragon ship with several dutchmen.
H. 6 x L. 10 cm
A total of eight Dutchmen populate this large netsuke of a two-tiered ship with an impressive dragon prow. The front and back show two lookouts, one with a telescope, and the ship is powered by two oarsmen one on each side. The other Dutchmen are relaxing, enjoying themselves while smoking a pipe, except for one who is crawling out of the structure by the bow, with an amusing facial expression. The underside of the ship is decorated with waves and has one central himotoshi. However, because of the size, it may be an okimono rather than a netsuke. The telescope is restored.
Related objects
A marine ivory netsuke of a Dutchman holding a Chinese fan
A large exceptional Japanese ema, or painted wood wishing board, depicting a ship
An ema is a votive plaque people hang in a 'dedication area’, at a Shinto shrine, with their wish to the gods. Wishes usually would revolve around health, love, career, prosperity, and academic achievement, but in this case a wish for a safe sea voyage.
