Anonymous

Edo Period 18th/19th century

1615-1868

Netsuke

A gold and shibuichi netsuke in the form of a compass. The body is made of shibuchi with a lopped end for attaching the cord. Gold hand carved flowers in the form of peonies cover the body and end. A compass is found on the top of the netsuke pointing in the four main directions of north, east, south and west.

Much scientific technology came into japan during the Edo period through the Dutch traders. Sundials and compass were fascinating to the Japanese at the time and mounting them in netsuke were well known often in the form of manju netsuke.

Unsigned

40mm x 14mm