Netsuke of Young Sparrow
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Ivory
Dimensions
H. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm); W. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); D. 1 in. (2.5 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
Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
Accession Number
91.1.967
Tags
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Art collection, this exquisiteNetsuke of Young Sparrow* is a 19th-century Japanese carving from the Edo (1615–1868) or earlyiji (1868–1912) period. Measuring just 7/8 inches high, 1 1/2 inches wide, 1 inch deep, its diminutive scale belies the artisan's extraordinary skill in capturing the delicate fluff and alert gaze of a fledgling bird perched as if ready to take flight. Part of the Edward C. Moore Collection, bequeathed in 1891, it exemplifies the intricate pocket sculptures prized by collectors worldwide. Netsuke originated as practical toggles...