Netsuke

Art Historical Context

This exquisite 19th-century nets, carved from ivory, exemplifies the masterful craftsmanship of Japanese artisans during the late Edo (1615–1868) or early Meiji (1868–1912) period. just 1 3/4 inches (4.4 cm) tall, it features intricate depictions of fish and human figures rendered with remarkable detail in a compact form. Netsuke like this served a practical purpose: as toggles to secure inro (small lacquered boxes for medicines or tobacco) to kimono sashes, since traditional Japanese attire lacked pockets. In Edo-period Japan, netsuke evolved from utilitarian objects into coveted art forms, ...