Netsuke

The Carol Duvall Show cameras visit Lynn Richardson, a netsuke artist. Netsuke (pronounced net-skay) is a Japanese art form that started in the early 1600s. The carved, miniature sculptures usually measure two to three inches tall. Both functional and aesthetically pleasing, netsuke functioned as toggles to secure necessary items to traditional, pocket-less kimonos.

Richardson was a 20-year veteran in commercial art before she discovered netsuke. She carves in porcelain, which makes the pieces extremely fragile. She makes traditional flora-, fauna- and legend-inspired pieces as well as contemporary pieces like Humpty Dumpty.

Richardson sometimes takes weeks to complete a piece from start to finish. She first sketches a design and then makes a small clay model. She carves into the clay. Next, she fires the porcelain overnight, then applies a glaze. After that, she fires the piece in a kiln.

Also in this Episode

Carol Duvall Show : Episode CDS-1221
•	Velvet Ribbon Lampshades
•	Netsuke
•	Transfer Bead & Bracelet