Netsuke, miniature sculptures of stone and glass, are among the most striking materials discovered at the medieval sites of Primorye. At the present time, 29 such pendants have been recorded. All were discovered at sites dating back to the time of the Jurchen state Eastern Xia (1115–1233). The distinctive style and certain standardization of these small sculptures gives one to assume that the Jurchen people had their own original school of small plastic art. Netsuke appeared among the Jurchen in the 13th century. No such sculptures have been found at sites dated earlier than the 13th century. Therefore, the present author supports the view of researchers who suggest that the Japanese and the Mongolians adopted netsuke from the Jurchen people.
Keywords: Netsuke, Jurchen people, small plastic art, Eastern Xia state, Primorye, medieval archaeology, decorative and applied arts.
