Three Friends of Winter

Three Friends of WinterSet of three kakejiku (hanging scrolls) painted on silk, each depicting one of the "Three Friends of Winter" (Shochikubai), a theme long celebrated in Japanese art. The pine tree symbolizes steadfast strength, remaining green even through the harshest winters. The bamboo represents resilience, bending in the strongest winds yet returning upright. The plum tree, which blossoms in late winter, signifies renewal and the promise of spring. Together these

is the god of wealth and agriculture

Expensive to make at the time

made for hanging on a wall or pillar

My visit to Mingeikan was enlightening in this regard- the tea bowls on display had sloped rims

This netsuke boasts a warm glow after decades of use

The short wand ending in a delicate double-helix structure

it's possible that the daikoku figures represented the owner's strong wish for household and agricultural prosperity

this particular piece is distinctive

This large Netsuke is exceptionally carved with intricate details (note the teeth and contour of the face) and has developed a wonderful patina

large bent bamboo trays

Possibly used as for winnowing or to carry light foodstuffs

With stand