Netsuke

The National Museum of Antiquities possesses more than 1500 netsuke, Japanese button-like fixtures for a man’s sash, from which small personal belongings like wallets and tobacco pouches were hung. Ingeniously stylised through different Japanese scenes, they are brought to life through Nico Crama’s camera. As a non-narrative abstract, a combination of image, sound and editing produces an exciting result; figures seem to lead their own lives. The flutist plays his tune, a turtle cheekily sticks out its head, demonstrating that netsuke are not only functional, but also works of great craftsmanship. Only a few are signed; others go through life anonymously. A mother with her children, animals and gnome-like figures make their appearance. For Crama, Netsuke was an exercise for his later work, a demonstration of skills to elicit a wider interest. Hints of a preference for animation can also be found in this film. (International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam)