Ox
Unknown Artist
19th century
Medium
Ivory
Dimensions
H. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm); W. 2 in. (5.1 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
Bequest of Stephen Whitney Phoenix, 1881
Accession Number
81.1.108
Tags
Art Historical Context
Nestled in the Metropolitan Museum of Art Asian Art collection, this ivory netsuke titled *Ox* (19th century) captures the essence of Japanese craftsmanship from the late Edo (1615–1868) or early Meiji (1868–1912) period. Carved by an unknown artist, the sculpture measures just 7/8 inch high, 2 inches wide, and 1 deep—perfectly suited to its original purpose as a functional toggle. Netsuke were ingenious accessories used to secure inro (small medicine or tobacco pouches) to a kimono sash, evolving from practical items into coveted art forms prized for their whimsy and detail. Rendered in smoo...