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Staghorn Antler Sashi Netsuke Depicting Ruyi Scepter browse these categories for related items... All Items: Antiques:Regional Art:Asian:Japanese:Netsuke and Related: Pre 1837 VR: item # 389685 Please refer to our stock # GK-368 when inquiring.
B & C Antiques P. O. Box 291 Derby, CT 06418 203-929-7312 Guest Book $780 |
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| This unusual early 19th century stag antler netsuke was carved in the form of two sacred ruyi fungus scepters. Unsigned. Many early carvers, in accordance with prevailing custom, did not sign their netsuke. Early netsuke were often carved from stag antler, an inexpensive and readily available material in Japan. A sashi is much longer than the more typical sized netsuke. Part of a sashi netsuke – the curved ruyi fungus heads in this case -- would be tucked into the obi in order to provide better balance and support for the sagemono. Use of the scepter known as ju-i in China and ruyi or nyoi in Japan dates back several millennia. In connection with Chinese Buddhism, the scepter has been used for many centuries as a symbol of authority. Over time, it was produced in both China and Japan primarily as a presentation gift. The scepter is itself an auspicious symbol, and its use associates the owner with the cultured life of a scholar. The popularity of the ruyi scepter is linked to the fact that the scepter’s head is shaped to resemble the auspicious Fungus of Immortality. (A similar wood ruyi sashi netsuke is illustrated on page 228 of “Symbols of Japan: Thematic Motifs in Art and Design” by Merrily Baird.) Condition is excellent. This netsuke has a beautiful patina reflecting many years of handling. Dimensions: 5 3/8” long, 2” wide. | |||||||
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