Courtesy Bonhams New York

Netsuke from American Collections
October 7 – 17, 2024
Online Only

Bonhams is delighted to present Netsuke from American Collections, an auction featuring these Japanese miniature sculptural masterpieces, with bidding open through October 17th.

From their first appearance in the great cities of seventeenth-century Japan, netsuke were used as practical toggles for suspending everyday items from a man’s sash (since the traditional male kimono had no pockets) but, more importantly, they also signaled their owners’ interests, discernment, and relative wealth. Typically carved from wood, ivory, or metal, netsuke became highly collectible art objects due to their fine craftsmanship and artistic value. Today, they are sought after by enthusiasts worldwide, while some of the finest examples are regularly showcased in leading museums such as the V&A in London, the Baur Foundation in Geneva, Tokyo National Museum, and the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston.

To learn more and register to bid, click here.

Bonhams will also be attending the International Netsuke Society Convention in Boston from October 10 to 14 at the Courtyard Boston Downtown, where they will be exhibiting netsuke from this upcoming sale.

To learn more about the convention, click here.