Early 20th Century Japanese Carved Nut Netsuke. Finely detailed figure of a snake emerging from its basket. 

Size: 1 1/2 x 1 1/2 x 1 1/4 in. 

A netsuke is a miniature sculpture that originated in 17th Century Japan as a functional button-like fastener used to secure personal belongings to a kimono sash. Traditional Japanese clothing lacked pockets, prompting men to use containers called sagemono (often lacquered inrō boxes) which were suspended by cords from their sashes (obi), and the netsuke served as a toggle to prevent the cord from slipping through the top of the obi. Over time, these utilitarian objects evolved into highly ornate items showcasing extraordinary craftsmanship, with their production peaking during the Edo period (1603-1867) in a diverse array of materials including wood, metal, bone, porcelain, coral, and stone. Though their use declined with the Westernization of Japanese dress in the Meiji period, netsuke remain highly collectible today and are found in various forms in major museums and private collections worldwide.

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