Netsuke, toggle of ivory

This ivory netsuke is of a travelling showman with a mask of a tengu or woodsprite on his back. A netsuke is used to fasten an inro, a lacquered container, which hung from the sash of a man's kimono. They became miniature art forms in their own right.

This netsuke depicts a travelling showman who has a mask of tengu or woodsprite on his back. He is carrying a conch shell, which he used to attract an audience, and a staff. The himetoshi, holes for passing the cord through are both found below the mask.

Record details

To search on related items, click any linked text below.