The Netsuke of Japan - Egerton Ryerson (1958) hardcover

Description

A great reference work for the serious netsuke collector: this classic 1958 book brings the world of Japanese netsuke to life with beautiful illustrations and vivid stories.

This early and much-loved standard work by Egerton Ryerson offers an in-depth introduction to the history, folklore and symbolism behind netsuke. The illustrations in your copy are particularly sharply printed, with strong black-and-white plates ranging from comic figures to mythological scenes. As can be seen in the photos, the plates include both rare human figures and animals in human guises-an iconic theme within netsuke art.

The dust jacket shows some signs of use, minor edge damage and light scratches (clearly visible in the photos), but the book block itself is nice and clean and solid. The typical light cream-coloured page edges and bright print quality are entirely appropriate for a neat 1950s edition.

Origin & meaning
In this work, Egerton Ryerson documents numerous traditional themes and stories from Japan, including comic characters, historical heroes, animal motifs and religious figures. This iconography forms the basis of many netsuke collecting areas. The book is still appreciated by collectors as accessible, classic literature on netsuke, written at a time when Japanese miniature art was just beginning to make a furore internationally.

Dimensions & condition
Hardcover, 1958. With dust jacket. Edges of cover with small wear spots and a few superficial scratches, as visible in detail photos. Interior in good antiquarian condition; boards are sharply printed and free of markings. Measures c. 24 × 16 cm.