Netsuke of a Man Sleeping while Monkey Steals Contents of Basket

Art Historical Context

This delightful ivory netsuke, carved in 19th-century Japan during the late Edo (1615–1868) or early Me (1868–1912) period, captures a whimsical moment: a man dozes peacefully while a mischievous monkey pilfers the contents of his basket. Measuring just 1 1/8 inches high 2 inches wide, petite scale showcases the extraordinary precision of Japanese ivory carvers, who transformed functional objects into miniature masterpieces. Netsuke originated as practical toggles for securing inro (small medicine or tobacco pouches) to kimono sashes in traditional Japanese attire, when pockets were absent fr...