Edamame (Soy Beans) 1771 - 1835

This netsuke, "Edamame (Soy Beans)", was carved by Okatomo in the late 18th or early 19th century. It is made of ivory, a material prized for its density and fine grain, which allows for intricate detail. The choice of ivory speaks to Japan's history as a trading nation, part of a global network of resource extraction. Okatomo's carving, despite its small size, shows incredible skill. Look closely, and you can see how the artist has used the material's natural variations in tone to bring out the texture of the bean pods. The smooth, polished surface contrasts beautifully with the carefully incised details, suggesting both the ripeness and fragility of the plant. The making of such a small, detailed object would have required immense patience, and the use of specialized tools for carving, smoothing, and polishing. Okatomo elevates a humble subject to a level of high art. By paying attention to the qualities of the material, and the skill of the artist, we can better appreciate the artistic traditions of the Edo period.