A stag antler netsuke of a Dutchman holding a cockerel
Edo period, late 18th century
H. 9.8 cm
This tall Dutchman has the classical appearance of an 18th century Dutchman in the eyes of the Japanese: a curly wig, bulging eyes, teeth that leave something to be desired, a large, brimmed hat with a plume and a long coat and undercoat. He firmly holds his fighting cock under his arm. To kill time during the long waits between arrivals of Dutch ships, the Dutch at Deshima organized cockfights – a tradition taken from Indonesia – as entertainment and as a betting opportunity.
H. 9.8 cm
This tall Dutchman has the classical appearance of an 18th century Dutchman in the eyes of the Japanese: a curly wig, bulging eyes, teeth that leave something to be desired, a large, brimmed hat with a plume and a long coat and undercoat. He firmly holds his fighting cock under his arm. To kill time during the long waits between arrivals of Dutch ships, the Dutch at Deshima organized cockfights – a tradition taken from Indonesia – as entertainment and as a betting opportunity.
