Aubergines with Interior Miniature Landscape
Artist/Culture
Issei
Date1800s
Mediumivory
ClassificationsIvories
Credit LineBequest of Mildred Marcus Levin and Harold Lester Levin
Object number1976.220
Descriptionlandscape in miniature seen through opening in larger egg plant; landscape shows a person on a horse crossing a bridge with a temple in the distanceLabel Text2005: Netsuke (Toggle) Aubergines with Interior Miniature Landscape Early 19th century Signed: Kazumasa (/Issei) Ivory Bequest of Mildred Marcus Levin and Harold Lester Levin, 1976.220 Minutely carved toggles (netsuke, lit. 'root-attach') were attached to the end of cords or chains in order to help secure and suspend tobacco pouches (tobako-ire) or tiered carrying containers (inro) from the kimono sash. The egg-shaped aubergines, with their abundance of seeds, represent fertility. A group of three aubergines predict a long life if seen in a dream. A miniature scene has been carved inside an "insect hole" in the large aubergine. The scene represents a courtier riding a horse led by an attendant walking towards a bridge and a temple. Notes:Pillar PrintsProvenanceMildred Marcus Levin and Harold Lester Levin, Nutley, NJ
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