Netsuke
early 19th century (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
This netsuke (a kind of toggle) depicts the popular goddess Okame pelting an oni (a type of demon) with dried beans in the End of the Year ceremony known as oni yarai or setsubun. At this time the bad luck of the Old Year is cast out by scattering around specially prepared beans. As personal misfortunes were often attributed to the influences of malicious oni, they are frequently depicted on the receiving end of the dried beans. With a mischievous, but concerned, grin on his face, we see the oni trying to hide beneath Okame's skirts.
Object details
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Carved and stained ivory |
| Brief description | Figure of Okame, Goddess of Mirth, pelting an oni (demon) with beans who is taking refuge in her skirts, carved ivory, Japanese, 19th century; Scu, Japan, dress accessories, ivory |
| Physical description | This netsuke depicts the popular goddess Okame pelting an oni with dried beans in the year-end ceremony known as oni yarai or setsubun. At this time, the bad luck of the old year is cast out by scattering around specially prepared beans. As misfortunes were often attributed to the influences of malicious oni, they are frequently depicted on the receiving end of the dried beans. With a mischievous grin on his face, we see the oni trying to hide beneath Okame's skirts. |
| Dimensions |
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| Style | |
| Object history | Bequeathed by Mr. George Salting, accessioned in 1910. This acquisition information reflects that found in the Asia Department registers, as part of a 2022 provenance research project. |
| Summary | This netsuke (a kind of toggle) depicts the popular goddess Okame pelting an oni (a type of demon) with dried beans in the End of the Year ceremony known as oni yarai or setsubun. At this time the bad luck of the Old Year is cast out by scattering around specially prepared beans. As personal misfortunes were often attributed to the influences of malicious oni, they are frequently depicted on the receiving end of the dried beans. With a mischievous, but concerned, grin on his face, we see the oni trying to hide beneath Okame's skirts. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | A.743-1910 |
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| Record created | February 25, 2003 |
| Record URL |
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