Netsuke of Three Monkeys on the Back of a Fish (Sanbiki Saru)
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Wood
Dimensions
H. 1 5/16 in. (3.4 cm); W. 1 5/8 in. (4.1 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
10.211.2216
Tags
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art Asian Art collection, this 19th-century woodenuke, titled *Netsuke of Threekeys on the Back of Fish (Sanbikiu)*, exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of Japan's Edo (1615–1868) early Meiji (186–1912) period. just 1 5/16 inches high and 1 5/ inches wide, netsuke were tiny toggles carved to secure inro (small medicine or tobacco pouches) to a samurai's sash or kim belt, as pockets were absent from traditional Japanese garments. Fashioned from wood—a common and accessible medium—these sculptures blended utility with artistry, often featuring whimsical ...