A Japanese boxwood netsuke of a toad on a lotus flower with a spider

A Japanese boxwood netsuke of a toad on a lotus flower observing a small spider.

This authentic Japanese netsuke from the Meiji period (1868-1912) portrays a naturalistic scene that nature itself can offer. The toad, carefully and realistically carved, is in an attentive pose, while the spider attempts to hide from the amphibian. The toad’s eyes are finely inlaid with blond horn, adding intensity to its gaze. Its legs and body are sculpted in a way that appears to be in motion as it tries to reach the spider hiding within one of the lotus flower’s holes. The lotus flower is intricately carved with delicate and precise details, and some flower seeds are missing, creating natural-looking empty cavities.

The boxwood netsuke of a toad is carved from a single block, exhibiting a pleasant light patina typical of the material and a smooth touch.

Origin: Japan
Period: Meiji late 19th century
Dimensions: 3,3 x 4 x 3,7 cm.
State of preservation: Very good