Tail Biting

The shark skin surface of this netsuke is made using the technique of ukibori (raised feature made from bloated wood) where by a rounded tool is pushed against the surface to create an indentation. The surface is then taken back until smooth. The netsuke is then placed in water where by the previously indented areas swell and rise above the surrounding surface. As in my netsuke titled ‘In Dark Water’ this is a netsuke of a shark biting its own tail. Symbolizing self-inflicted mental pain created through self-doubt.

Artist:

Leigh Sloggett

Material:

Boxwood

Category:

Animal

Netsuke Type:

Katabori

Dimensions:

49mm

Created:

1994