Japanese Ivory Netsuke of an Attractive Shell Group of Three Venus Clams

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Japanese Ivory Netsuke of an Attractive Shell Group of Three Venus Clams

Finch & Co

Period 1800-1900

Origin Japan

Medium Ivory

Dimension 1.5 x 4 x 3 cm (0⁵/₈ x 1⁵/₈ x 1¹/₈ inches)

A Japanese Ivory Netsuke of an Attractive Shell Group of Three Venus Clams
Unstained fine smooth creamy patina
Unsigned
19th Century

Size: 1.5cm high, 4cm wide, 3cm deep - ½ ins high, 1½ ins wide, 1¼ ins deep

Period: 1800-1900

Origin: Japan

Medium: Ivory

Dimension: 1.5 x 4 x 3 cm (0⁵/₈ x 1⁵/₈ x 1¹/₈ inches)

Provenance: Ex European Private collection

Literature: ‘Hamaguri’ seawater Venus clams are found in the coastal waters of Japan, Korea and China and are said to taste best during the cherry blossom season. Because the shells are a joined pair, they symbolise martial harmony and so clam soup is often served at weddings. However the clam is also said to be a salacious symbol as it resembles women’s genitalia.

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