Netsuke Depicting Korobase - Japan - Edo Period (1615 - 1868)

NETSUKE representing Korobase
Japan, Edo period (1615 - 1868)
Wood and lacquer
H. 5 ; L 4 cm

A carved wooden Netsuke depicting the avian mask of Korobase - a crane that appears during the traditional Bugaku dance to select the elite, particularly from the Japanese imperial courts.
The reverse has a loop and is decorated with red lacquer. 

Netsuke is used for a very specific purpose: the kimono, a traditional Japanese garment, has no fastenings, button placket or loop. Nor does it have any pockets. The obi, a wide ribbon of fabric tied with a knot, was used as a belt to keep the kimono closed. It was from the obi that the Japanese hung their inrō, a small box with compartments, which was used to carry everyday objects. The inrō had a cord that passed under the obi. The netsuke, attached to the end and placed above the upper edge of the belt, blocked the object. It thus acted as a cleat or counterweight.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

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