Netsuke van een man met een rattenval 1840 - 1890

This is a drawing of a man with a rat trap made by Philippe Burty in the 19th century. Burty was a key figure in the French art world, a critic who coined the term Japonisme to describe the influence of Japanese art on Western art. This image reflects that interest in Japanese art and culture. The netsuke depicted here is a small, intricately carved toggle used to fasten items to a kimono sash. Originally functional objects, netsuke became art objects collected and appreciated for their craftsmanship. Burty was one of the first to collect them. So, this drawing captures a moment of cultural exchange and artistic appreciation. In order to better understand the context in which this drawing was made, we can consult museum archives, auction catalogs, and period publications that would shed light on the vogue for Japanese art in 19th century France. This image is a reminder that art does not exist in a vacuum, but is deeply embedded in the social and institutional contexts of its time.