Ivory rings, depicted in Japanese prints of the late sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, are among the earliest identifiable forms of netsuke. Initially these appear to have been simple undecorated bands of ivory, prompting an intriguing question: how long did it take before such functional objects became vehicles for artistic expression?
A small number of exceptionally early examples survive in which the ring has been embellished with carved decoration. Among the most notable are examples incorporating a trio of monkeys, including one formerly in the Raymond Bushell Collection (sold by Christie's). These rare survivals appear to document an important stage in the evolution of netsuke. The plain central opening, through which the obi cord originally passed, gradually ceased to dominate the design, while the sculptural composition itself became increasingly important. In examples such as the present piece, the ring is effectively transformed into a circular arrangement of three monkeys whose joined limbs preserve the functional opening while simultaneously creating a fully realised sculptural composition.
This evolutionary process suggests one possible route by which the early ivory ring developed into the manjū form of netsuke. Although current scholarship does not generally place these monkey-trio manjū as early as the beginning of the seventeenth century, they are nevertheless considered among the earliest surviving sculptural netsuke, probably dating to the late seventeenth or very early eighteenth century and firmly within the Foundation Age of the art.
Beyond their historical significance, these early manjū possess an exceptional tactile quality. Their smooth, rounded forms sit naturally in the hand, inviting handling in precisely the manner for which they were intended. There is a particular pleasure in examining such a piece, knowing that it belongs to the earliest generations of netsuke produced as the art form was taking shape.
The design would go on to be utilised by Kokusai & Toyomasa, please see link.
Anonymous. Late 17th - Early 18th Century.
Private collection Budapest, Hungary.
For an example sold within the last 5 years please see the link.
