Netsuke

Art Historical Context

This exquisite netsuke, a 19th-century Japanese carving from the Edo (1615–1868) or Meiji (1868–1912) period, exemplifies the artistry of everyday objects in traditional Japan. Netsuke were small toggles attached to inro pouches or medicine boxes, securing them to a kimono sash since pockets were absent from traditional garments. Crafted by an unknown artist, this piece from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection features an animal motif, a common theme that brought whimsy and symbolism to functional accessories. Carved from ivory with a bronze disk inlaid with silver, the nets...