Object of the Day: A Japanese Netsuke

In Sixteenth Century Japan, gentlemen began to become frustrated by the lack of pockets in their traditional kimonos and wore pouches or small baskets from cords attached to their belts. In these containers, they’d carry the objects that they’d need throughout the day. The cords were attached to their belts via a small decorative toggle or button-like object made of horn, ivory, bone, wood, metal, cane or lacquer. Over time, these objects, called Netsuke, became highly carved and ornamental. Soon, the Netsuke transitioned from being a purely practical article to being a highly revered art form.


Netsuke were not only collected by the Japanese, but also by other cultures across the world. Collectors in the U.K. were especially prevalent during the Nineteenth Century when British ladies and gentlemen became fascinated by Asian cultures.

This Netsuke dog is modeled after figures which would have been developed in the Nineteenth Century. I’ve had this little carving since my childhood. I’m not quite sure exactly what the material is. Animals were among the most popular subjects for Netsuke, especially those animals which related to the Zodiac. This rather fierce dog is also quite cute in its own way. I’ve always liked its grinning mouth and alert eyes.

Netsuke—both antique and contemporary—continue to be collected today. Though they serve no practical function any longer, they’re beautiful reminders of Japanese cleverness and the continued global quest for beauty in functionality.