47 rōnin

This Manjū netsuke, carved from mammoth tusk (6.3 cm across), is dedicated to the legend of the 47 Rōnin—the ultimate story of samurai loyalty, honour, and vengeance in Japanese culture.
​The surface of the netsuke captures the visages of the 47 loyal samurai whose names are forever inscribed in history, while the names of Kira’s defenders have faded into oblivion. This contrast underscores the central idea: true immortality is earned not by victory, but by unwavering devotion to honour. The miniature warrior figures are accented with Japanese Urushi lacquer, adding dramatic depth to the composition.
​The artistic narrative is powerfully concluded by a symbolic and potent detail: the Ojime bead, which secures the cord, is carved in the likeness of the head of the chief antagonist, Kira Yoshinaka.
​The cord holding the netsuke passes directly through his mouth, symbolizing the completed vengeance and the triumph of the 47 Rōnin who achieved their goal—recovering their master’s desecrated honour by claiming their enemy’s head.
​Materials: Mammoth Tusk, Japanese Urushi Lacquer.
Size: 6.3 cm.
2024, Russia, private collection.