Netsuke in the Form of an Akita Puppy

About the Art

Netsuke were personal accessories during the Edo period in Japan (1615–1868). Their purpose was to suspend a small carrying case from the sash of a man’s pocketless kimono. They were also a way to make a subtle and often humorous fashion statement. People outside of the ruling samurai class, including the increasingly wealthy merchants, were restricted in how much luxury they could display. But through practical items like netsuke, a level of opulence was possible and they developed into imaginative works of art, delicately detailed carved sculptures that could fit in your palm.

The Chinese zodiac is based on a cycle of twelve years and appears in several cultures throughout Asia, including Japan. An animal is associated with each year, one being dogs. Netsuke carved in the shape of the different zodiac creatures were popular, particularly wearing the animal corresponding to one’s birth year.

FEATURED IMAGE
Yamaguchi Okatomo (Japanese, 1756–1781), Netsuke in the Form of an Akita Puppy, 18th century, ivory, inlaid amber, 1 3/8 x 1 inches ( 3.5 x 2.5 cm). Gift of the James F. Dicke Family, 2023.4