Netsuke of Cat
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Ivory
Dimensions
H. 1 in. (2.5 cm); W. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm); D. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm)
Classification
Netsuke
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo (1615–1868) or Meiji period (1868–1912)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Russell Sage, 1910
Accession Number
10.211.40
Tags
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Art collection, this charming *Netsuke of Cat* is a 19th-century ivory carving from Japan, likely from the late Edo period (1615–1868) or early Meiji era (1868–1912). Measuring just 1 inch high, 1¼ inches wide, and⅞ inch deep, its petite scale belies the artisan's extraordinary skill in transforming a small piece of ivory into a lifelike feline form. Gifted by Mrs. Russell Sage in 0, it exemplifies the intricate craftsmanship of anonymous Japanese sculptors who elevated everyday objects into wearable art. Netsuke were essential accessories in tradit...