Works

Homage to the Old

There is powerful persuasion in the design and sculpture of netsuke used as daily practical accessories in the late Edo Period. Understanding these Edo netsuke become the starting point for Bishu’s netsuke. Presented here is a series of Bishu’s works that pays homage to antique netsuke.

My Contemporary Self

The netsuke presented here are Bishu’s own original works that also incorporate what he contemplates are the fundamentals of design and sculpture of antique netsuke.

Bishu was brought up in his family’s carving business. At a young age, he was engaged in reproducing antique netsuke. His training in fundamental netsuke design took place here. After mastering the basics, he took up the challenge of creating his own works. The term contemporary netsuke came about as part of a movement started by Bishu and his contemporaries. Bishu has since confronted the question of what contemporary netsuke encompasses for more than fifty years. His quest continues today.

Homage to the old, with the Contemporary

I have witnessed Bishu’s creative process for a long time now. While working, he appears to come and go between his respect for antique netsuke and his search for self-expression. I believe the Japanese expression “Onko-Chishin（温故知新）” aptly describes Bishu’s work. Do you know its meaning? It is to revisit and think about the past, to make it a foundation from which to discover new things, and to make the discoveries your own. I believe that Bishu’s experience also is a guiding path for young aspiring netsuke carvers.

Tatsushi HASHIMOTO,
Gallery Hanakagesho