Japanese netsukemdash;miniature carvingsmdash;are profiled in this wonderful Japanese arts book.These tiny masterpieces of sculpture (mostly in ivory and wood); of lacquer; and of metalwork captivated collectors with the charm of their conception; the intricacy of their detail; and the sheer tactile pleasure of handling them. Basically they were utilitarian in purpose; serving as toggles or pendants to support medicine boxes; tobacco pouches; and similar articles suspended by a cord from the obi. Originally primitive in design; they soon became more and more sophisticated; and their makers turned increasingly to the legendry of Japan for their subject matter.It is with these masterpieces in miniature that author-collector Raymond Bushell deals in The Wonderful World of Netsuke picturing one hundred of them in color and offering a delightfully informative description of each. In so doing; he provides not only a visual treat but also an absorbing commentary on Japanese manners; customs; history; legends; and superstitions. Mr. Bushell; besides being an avid collector of netsuke; sword furnishings; and jade; is widely known for his adaptation from the Japanese of The Netsuke Handbook of Ueda Reikichi.
#3865038 in eBooks 2012-06-05 2012-06-05File Name: B0089WYIIG
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