How do I clean an antique boxwood carving?

Dust the carving gently with a soft dry brush to lift debris from deep recesses. Avoid water, damp cloths and modern chemical polishes, which can darken or lift the historic patina. Allow the wood to breathe naturally in a stable environment away from direct sunlight and radiators. Excessive heat causes the dense boxwood grain to shrink and split over time.

What is the difference between a netsuke and an okimono?

A netsuke is a miniature toggle with cord holes carved through the body, designed to secure a small container to a traditional Japanese kimono sash. An okimono is simply a larger decorative figurine intended for display on a shelf or tabletop. Both forms utilise the dense grain of boxwood for intricate carving, but their original function and scale set them apart.

Why does old boxwood turn yellow or brown?

Boxwood naturally darkens with age and exposure to light, developing a rich amber skin known as a patina. Oils from human hands during centuries of handling also enrich the colour. This gradual shift in tone is a sign of authenticity and age, separating historic carvings from newly milled timber.