Japanese Frog Parent & Baby Netsuke 2.13inch Ojime Accessory Signed Takayuki MB721
This is a Japanese netsuke-style miniature carving from the Showa period, depicting a large frog carrying a smaller frog on its back. The piece is made of resin and is signed 宝之 on the underside.
The composition is particularly appealing because the two frogs are clearly differentiated in both scale and coloration. The larger frog forms the main body of the carving, crouching low with its four legs folded closely against its rounded body. A much smaller green-toned frog rests naturally across its back, creating a charming parent-and-young arrangement.
The larger frog has a light-toned resin surface covered with numerous finely applied brown speckles that create a natural textured appearance. Its broad head, prominent eyes, wide mouth, powerful hind legs, and individually defined toes are carefully modeled. Deep carving around the eyes and mouth gives the face a strong and expressive appearance, while glossy black eyes create a striking contrast against the lighter body.
The smaller frog is finished in a pale green tone with darker green and black speckling. Its compact body, folded legs, raised eyes, and small toes are clearly rendered despite its miniature scale. The difference in color between the two frogs gives the composition additional depth and makes the smaller figure immediately noticeable when viewed from above or from the side.
Frogs are a familiar motif in Japanese decorative arts. The Japanese word for frog, kaeru, is also associated with the verb meaning “to return,” and frog motifs have therefore traditionally been connected with ideas such as safe return, good fortune, and the return of money or prosperity. The parent-and-young arrangement further gives this piece a warm sense of companionship and continuity.
The underside shows the signature 宝之, together with the cord opening associated with netsuke and sagemono use. Its compact rounded form and detailed sculptural treatment make it an attractive piece for collectors of Japanese netsuke, frog motifs, miniature sculpture, sagemono, and Showa-period decorative arts.
Size
Width: Approx. 5.4 cm / 2.13 in
Depth: Approx. 3.8 cm / 1.50 in
Height: Approx. 3.2 cm / 1.26 in
Total Weight
Approx. 33.5 g / 1.18 oz
Condition
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