Hare with Amber Eyes
Edmund De Waal
19 min
7 Key Points
4.4 RateWhat's inside?
Follow a family's journey through history, as told through the eyes of a small Japanese figurine, and discover the power of memory and heritage.
You'll learn
1. What's the deal with 264 netsuke?2. A Jewish family's war and wanderings3. Why save family stories?4. Art and culture's effect on who we are5. The magic of storytelling in finding our roots6. How stuff shapes our lives and memories.Key points
01The Rise and Fall of the Ephrussi Family: A Banking Dynasty's Story
In the bustling city of Odessa, a family of humble grain merchants began a journey that would take them to the pinnacle of European society. The Ephrussi family, with their keen business acumen and strategic moves, rose to prominence in the banking industry, rivaling the Rothschilds in wealth and influence during the 19th century. Their story is not just about financial success, but also about a deep passion for art that complemented their banking triumphs. The Ephrussi family were not just bankers; they were also avid art patrons and collectors. Their love for art was so profound that it shaped the European art scene. Their collection was a testament to their refined taste, boasting pieces from renowned artists. However, their story took a tragic turn with the onset of World War II. The socio-political climate leading up to the war was fraught with tension and hostility, particularly towards Jewish families like the Ephrussis. The Nazis persecuted the family, seizing their assets and stripping them of their wealth and influence. This downfall had a profound impact on the family and their legacy, marking a dark chapter in their history. Yet, the Ephrussi family's story is more than just a tale of rise and fall. It is a symbol of Jewish history during the 19th and 20th centuries. Their journey mirrors the broader Jewish experience of this era, marked by triumphs and tragedies. Despite their downfall, the Ephrussi family's legacy endures, a testament to their resilience and enduring influence. In retrospect, the Ephrussi family's journey from rise to fall is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of wealth and influence. Their story offers valuable lessons about resilience in the face of adversity and the enduring value of passion and culture. It encourages us to delve deeper into the Ephrussi family's impact on banking and art, and to appreciate the rich tapestry of their legacy.
02The Journey of the Ephrussi Family's Netsuke Collection
In the heart of Paris, a collection of tiny, intricate Japanese carvings known as netsuke sat in a grand vitrine, each one a testament to the artistic prowess of the craftsmen who created them. These netsuke, however, were more than just beautiful objects; they were the silent witnesses to the journey of the Ephrussi family, a prominent Jewish banking dynasty. The Ephrussi family's netsuke collection was a symbol of their wealth and cultural sophistication. Acquired in the late 19th century, the netsuke were a testament to the family's appreciation for art and their desire to connect with the world beyond their European home. Each netsuke, from the hare with amber eyes to the meditating monk, was a tangible representation of the family's journey, their triumphs, and their tragedies. Fast forward to the 21st century, and the netsuke found a new custodian in Edmund De Waal, a descendant of the Ephrussi family. For De Waal, inheriting the netsuke collection was not just about acquiring beautiful objects; it was about reconnecting with his family's past. Each netsuke was a link to his ancestors, a window into their lives, and a reminder of their resilience. The value of the netsuke collection extended far beyond their artistic and historical worth. They were symbols of the Ephrussi family's resilience and survival. Despite the upheavals they faced, from the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe to the devastation of World War II, the family managed to keep the netsuke safe. Each netsuke was a testament to their determination to preserve their heritage, even in the face of adversity. The journey of the netsuke collection was as remarkable as the family's own journey. From Japan to Europe, the netsuke bore silent witness to the changing fortunes of the Ephrussi family. They were there during the family's heyday in Paris and Vienna, survived the Nazi occupation, and eventually found their way back to Japan before returning to Europe. Each netsuke carried a piece of history, a story of survival and resilience. In conclusion, the journey of the Ephrussi family's netsuke collection is a powerful testament to the enduring power of objects to carry history and connect generations. Each netsuke is a silent witness to the family's journey, a symbol of their resilience, and a link to their past. They remind us that objects, no matter how small, can carry immense historical and emotional weight. They can tell stories, preserve memories, and connect us to our past.
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03The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Symbol of Family Resilience
04Exploring Art, Identity, and Memory in Netsuke Collection
05"Tracing Family History and Netsuke Origins: A Journey through Paris, Vienna, and Tokyo"
06Reflecting on a Family's Holocaust Legacy
07Conclusion
About Edmund De Waal
Edmund de Waal is a British artist, author, and ceramicist, best known for his book "The Hare with Amber Eyes". He is a professor of ceramics at the University of Westminster and his artworks are displayed in many international collections. His writing combines family history, memoir, and personal reflection.
