Netsuke of Man with a Bag, Standing on a Block

Art Historical Context

This exquisite netsuke, titled *Man with a Bag, on a Block*, is tiny masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship from the 19 century, likely from the late Edo period (1615–1868) or early Meiji era (1868–1912). Carved from ivory, it measures just 1 5/8 inches high, capturing a standing man clutching a bag atop a sturdy block. Its diminutive scale—barely larger than a walnut—highlights the artist's remarkable precision in rendering human form and everyday details. Netsuke like this served a practical purpose in traditional Japanese dress: as toggles to secure inro (small lacquered cases) or pouches t...