Netsuke of Fukurokujin with Karako Boy
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Ivory
Dimensions
H. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm); W. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm); D. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 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
10.211.1427
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite netsuke, carved from ivory in 19th-century Japan during the late Edo or early Meiji, depicts Fukurokin—one of the beloved Seven Lucky Gods (Shichifukujin)—accompanied by a playful karako, a stylized Chinese child figure often symbolizing good fortune and joy. Standing just 2½ inches tall, this miniature sculpture showcases the artist's mastery of intricate ivory carving, a technique prized for its smooth texture and ability to capture fine details like flowing robes, expressive faces, and dynamic poses in a remarkably small scale. Netsuke originated as practical toggles for sec...