Netsuke: 100 Miniature Masterpieces From Japan

Intricately carved from various materials including ivory, wood and metal, netsuke served a practical purpose in Japan: these small toggles were used to fasten a man's sash, an integral part of Japanese costume. Up until the seventeenth century netsuke were relatively insignificant objects that were rarely of artistic interest, but as time passed they evolved in terms of both materials and workmanship, and were then used by men to flaunt their wealth or as an expression of status. Today netsuke are considered an art form in their own right and are prized by collectors around the world.

This book brings together one hundred of the most beautiful and interesting netsuke from the extensive collection of the British Museum, each of which has its own special charm and story to tell.