What is netsuke?
In Japanese mythology what is the symbolism of a small boy holding a scroll riding on the back of a giant carp
On Children’s Day in Japan they use a symbol like this:
Here is a quote from the below source explaining it “Gogatsu ningyo (5th Month Dolls) are displayed in homes and store windows with images of Kintarou, usually riding on a large carp, and a traditional Japanese samurai helmet, a Kabuto. Kintarou and the Kabuto are both symbols of a strong and healthy boy. Kintarou (金太郎) is the childhood name of a hero of the Heian period, famous for his strength as a child. It is said that Kintarou mounted on a bear, instead of a horse, and played with animals in the mountain when he was a young boy.
Has anyone heard of a oriental netsuke being made of some sought of rock or stone?
Without photos your question is impossible to answer. It sounds like you have an Inuit carving and not a Japanese netsuke, to be sure go to the forum of ‘www.netsuke.org’ and put your question with ALL sides photos of your piece.
Japanese netsuke are a kind of toggle worn by men as part of a belt fastening their robes.
They can be carved from wood, ivory bone, they can be plain & smooth, inlaid or inscribed. The colour usually indicates the material. Most have an often grotesque animal themes
The two holes are for the strings of the toggle to pass through.
As yours is signed it may well be valuable. Your best bet for information is to take it to a reputable auction house, most devote at least a day a week specially for valuing/ giving information on any objects brought in by the public. This is a free service, though they may want to auction itt for you if valuable
How would you price an erotic boxwood netsuke?
You’d have to go to a specialist dealer. Could be worth almost nothing, or a fortune. Get it checked by someone who knows what they are talking about.
Tell me the history of chinese 4 belles gui netsuke?
various bits of info here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Netsuke
I need help identifying a netsuke/value.?
If your netsuke is genuine, it is made of walrus ivory, not the kind that comes from an elephant. Value varies a great deal, depending in age, condition and quality. You can find knowledgeable dealers in New York, Boston or San Francisco, or you can wait until Antiques Roadshow next comes to town.
Source:- Yahoo answers
