Netsuke of Goose in Flight against Moon 19th century

This ivory netsuke of a goose in flight against the moon was made by Ryūsa in the late 18th century. During this period, Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate, a time marked by relative peace, economic growth, and a flourishing of arts and culture. Netsuke like this one were functional fashion accessories, toggles used to suspend personal items from the sashes of traditional Japanese garments. But they were also miniature sculptures, reflecting the refined tastes of their owners. Ryūsa, whose life was brief, captured a poignant moment of nature. The goose, a symbol of fidelity and autumn, is depicted in graceful flight against the backdrop of a full moon, evoking a sense of longing. The choice of ivory as a medium speaks to the affluence and cultural values of the merchant class, who were the primary patrons of netsuke artists. Ryūsa's netsuke invites reflection on the ephemeral beauty of life and the natural world, capturing the spirit of a culture that deeply valued harmony, balance, and a profound connection to nature.