Fukura Sparrow Netsuke - Tsuda Sukesada - Japan - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

Fukura Sparrow Netsuke 富久良すずめ 根付（ふくらすずめ ねつけ） – Tsuda Sukesada 津田亮定（つだ すけさだ）– tomobako

This finely carved netsuke depicts a “fukura suzume,” a sparrow plump with stored nourishment for the harsh winter months—a traditional symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and contentment in Japan.

It is crafted in the celebrated Hida region of Gifu Prefecture using the traditional technique of “Ichii Ittobori” (carving from yew wood with a single chisel). The material is the Japanese yew, the official tree of Gifu, distinguished by its two-toned structure: the warm reddish “akada” heartwood and the pale “shirata” outer layer. These natural color variations create a gentle, organic gradation that brings the sparrow’s round form to life.

Ichii Ittobori has a history dating back over 800 years. During an imperial enthronement ceremony, a ceremonial scepter (shaku) made from yew was presented to the Emperor. Its exceptional beauty earned it the title of “Shoichii,” the highest rank, giving rise to the name “Ichii” (first rank). Works in this tradition are carved exclusively with chisels and intentionally left unpainted to highlight the natural grain and warmth of the yew.

This piece is by Tsuda Sukesada (1923–1998), the fifth-generation master of a lineage beginning in the Edo period. His works, along with those of his predecessors, are prized by collectors worldwide—most notably the Raymond Bushell Collection, which includes pieces spanning from the first generation to Sukesada. He was designated as a National Traditional Craftsperson, instructed the Crown Prince and Princess in 1976, and received the Minister of International Trade and Industry Award in 1998.

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Artist Profile
Tsuda Sukesada（1923–1998）
• Fifth-generation master of a historic Ichii Ittobori lineage
• Designated National Traditional Craftsperson
• 1976: Instructor to the Crown Prince and Crown Princess
• Works held in major international collections, including Raymond Bushell
• 1998: Awarded the Minister of International Trade and Industry Prize

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Accessories
• tomobako (signed wooden box)

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Dimensions & Weight
• Height: 3 cm
• Width: 4.7 cm
• Depth: 3 cm
• Weight: 7.7 g

Box (including accessories):
• Height: 5.5 cm
• Width: 7 cm
• Depth: 5.5 cm

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Technique & Condition
Technique: Wood carving
Material: Japanese yew (Ichii)
Condition: Excellent

Estimated period: 1970–1990

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Shipping
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