Ants
This netsuke is a vivid example of material and subject merging into one. The entire composition is built around the bustling life of an ant colony.
The Ant (Ari) is a Japanese symbol of incredible diligence, order, perseverance, and selfless collective effort. In this scene, we witness an entire community absorbed in its timeless labor. I integrated the wood’s natural dark inclusions and defects, which are not hidden but instead become an essential part of the anthill, lending it an organic, earthen texture.
Takamakie on Togidashi ground, this ground was done on the carved wooden surface with Seshime Urushi, Roiro-Urushi and gold Hiramefun. The Ants were done with Ikkaki-Urushi, colored with Roiro-Urushi, small stones and pieces of dried grasses were covered with Keshifun, gold and silver. The size of this Manju netsuke is 5.2 cm across, 1.2 cm thick. 2009. Russia, private collection.