A wooden netsuke of a coiled snake
WORKSHOP: An Introduction to Netsuke: Object Handling Session for Visually Impaired People
- 14 January 2023
- 113:00-13:45 / 14:30-15:15
- The Library, Japan House London, 101-111 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5SA
- https://www.japanhouselondon.uk/whats-on/2023/an-introduction-to-netsuke-object-handling-session-for-visually-impaired-people/
- 020 3972 7100
- events@japanhouselondon.uk
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Encounter a selection of intricately carved netsuke in a tactile object handling session at Japan House London created especially for blind and partially sighted guests.
Netsuke originated as small toggles used to suspend items from an obi sash, worn as part of a Japanese men’s ensemble from the 17th century onwards. From their utilitarian origins, netsuke have evolved into objects of high art, highly sought after by collectors all over the world.
Small enough to be held in the palm of the hand, these miniature sculptures have been carved from all sorts of materials including various types of wood, ivory, boars’ tusks, walnuts and stag antlers. Their elaborate carvings capture a rich array of subject matter from animals and plants to characters from Japanese mythology, folklore and history.
During each small-group workshop, led by Rosemary Bandini, guests can learn about the functional and aesthetic roles of netsuke and handle a selection of exquisitely decorated pieces. For each item, Rosemary introduces the techniques and materials used by the carver, and the varied subject matter they portray.
About the Tour Leader
Washizuka Hiroshi
Born in 1971 in Kakamigahara, Gifu Prefecture, Washizuka Hiroshi moved to Takayama city upon graduating from high school, and in 1990, began to apprentice under Wani Hisayuki, owner of Wani Chōokoku. After six years of training, Washizuka began his own independent atelier, Washizuka Chōkoku, and dedicated himself to the refinement of his carving skills over the next 30 years. In 1998, he joined the Hida Ichii Ittō Carving Association, and was appointed a director in 2007. In 2010, at the age of 38, he was recognized as a ‘Traditional Craftsman’ by the Japanese government. His carvings borrow from classical motifs and encompass a wide range of expression, from hannya masks used in Noh theatre to charming portrayals of animals. His technique is especially known for drawing out the full potential of yew sapwood and wood grain. Distinctive among his carvings are his depictions of auspicious Japanese symbols, such as the Seven Gods of Fortune, the animals of the Japanese zodiac, and owls.
This event has been made possible with the support of Takayama City and Gifu Prefecture.
Booking Essential | Admission Free
Booking tickets
Please click here to book your ticket
You will be able to select your preferred session time at the point of booking. Please note that this event is for blind and partially sighted guests only.
If you have any questions about this event or how to book, please email info@japanhouselondon.uk, or call us on +44 (0)20 7932 7100.
Assistance dogs and companions are welcome.
A collection of netsuke carved using the ichii ittōbori (yew woodcarving) technique are on display in the exhibition The Carpenters’ Line: Woodworking Heritage in Hida Takayama in the Gallery at Japan House London until 29 January 2023.
