A netsuke is a miniature sculpture, originating in 17th century Japan. Initially a simply-carved button fastener on the cords of an inrō box, netsuke later developed into ornately sculpted objects of craftsmanship.
The Hare with Amber Eyes netsuke, by Masatoshi, Osaka, c. 1880, signed. Ivory, amber buffalo horn
An ivory netsuke with an eagle design and an inrō with a deer design. The combination of netsuke and inrō creates a story of an eagle preying on deer. Edo period, 18th century
Drawing of a man wearing an inrō supported by a netsuke passed through the ties of his hakama.
Katabori-netsuke front and rear view with two holes for cord
An inro is a traditional Japanese case for holding small objects, suspended from the obi (sash) worn around the waist when wearing a kimono. They are often highly decorated with various materials such as lacquer and various techniques such as maki-e, and are more decorative than other Japanese lacquerware.
Inro with the characters for longevity and good fortune and the "Seven Lucky Treasures" on checkerboard ground, Edo period, 18th century, Metropolitan Museum of Art
Inro components
An inro suspended by a netsuke and held together with an ojime
Inro cabinet with a waterfall design in maki-e lacquer, Edo or Meiji period, 19th century
