The Art of Carving Netsuke

(Paperback)

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Japanese netsuke was traditionally created for practical reasons, to secure a valuables pouch to the sash of Japanese garments. They are now highly collectable works of art. Thanks to author and Chairman of the British Woodcarvers Association, Peter Benson, you too can learn this miniature carving style with this beautiful, concise guide that will take you through 9 step-by-step projects. The Art of Carving Netsuke covers the full process and all the techniques required for creating superb, miniature carvings reflecting this Japanese tradition. This book will inspire you - from relative beginners to the experienced and dedicated carver.

Reviews

Netsuke is an interesting art form of carving originating (I believe) in Japan that has gained some popularity in this hemisphere. Peter Benson shows you how it's done. Pronounced net- soo-key, author Benson has written the definitive book on carving netsuke. Once considered utilitarian kimono accessories, netsuke is now small carvings and works of art meant for eye appeal. Benson goes into great detail and illustrates the carving of nine unique and interesting designs. A variety of materials are used from ivory, wood, animal horn, amber, and even stone and the author shows you how it is all done. There is an excellent list of tools and other materials to get you started and Benson walks you through the various processes. The author has a penchant for animals such as a snake, toad, rabbit, dormouse, turtledove and fish and just for variety, he throws in an apple and mask. All however, intriguing and beautiful.
Packed with full-size patterns, step-by-step instructions - a nice departure from the usual use of photographs - you too can craft a wonderful instrument.
THE ART OF CARVING NETSUKE, by Peter Benson, is a guide to making miniature sculptures that were invented in 17th-century Japan to serve a practical purpose. It features nine projects and detailed instruction for carving realistic impressions of scales, feathers, fur, hair and more. The introduction provides a fairly thorough history of netsuke, while a gallery section shows exceptional work by netsuke carvers from around the world. Benson has been carving for more than 60 years and currently teaches carving at the Essex School of Woodcarving in Great Britain.

Author Bio

Peter Benson, Chairman of the British Woodcarvers Association, runs courses for carvers of all abilities throughout the UK. He also travels to the United States to give seminars and talks, and is in regular demand as a judge for carving competitions. His own work centers on miniature carvings, including fantastic Japanese netsuke.