Seated goose. Unsigned, 19th century. Photo: Michael R. Berstein

A class similar to that of the early sculpture was created much later in Japanese history. This form of sculpture, called netsuke (pronounced net-skeh in Japanese), developed over a period of three hundred years and continues today. The netsuke was similar to the early Joman sculptures in that the two types of sculptures were both comprised of small figurines. The original purpose of Netsuke was to act as a “pocket”. Kimonos, the traditional Japanese form of dress, do not contain pockets, and thus are not able to easily carry items. Small personal items were tucked by women in their sleeves but men tied personal items to their kimono sash. These personal items including tobacco purses, pipes, and writing utensils were placed inside a pouch called a sagemono which was tied using a silk cord. Netsuke was created in order to prevent the silk cord from slipping through the obi. Soon after its creation, netsuke began to function as an aesthetic object as well.

Artists, who often left their work unsigned, began carving elaborate objects using any and all materials available to them. Some used rare materials including ivory and stone, and others used extremely common materials such as narwhal, boar’s tusk, boar’s teeth, amber, and stag antler. Contemporary artists have also experimented with netsuke. These new carvers are from many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, Africa, New Zealand, Australia, and some European countries. The different locations of the carvers has helped usher in new themes to this form of sculpture that are not generally evident in Japan.

Because of their intricate designs the netsuke has become widely coveted in modern times. Large private collections exist in Europe and in the United States. Museums which frequently display netsuke collections include the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Disney World EPCOT Center, and the British Museum in London. Netsuke can also be purchased from Asian art dealers and the auction houses of Sotheby’s and Christie’s, both of whom feature Japanese art auctions.