NETSUKE

Netsuke (root to hold), was an essential accessory in traditional Japanese dress worn, and still worn at certain events, by men, women and children alike.

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The Kosode or Kimono does not have pockets, in the 17th century small pieces were invented with a totally practical function: "a counterweight, which attached by a cord to an object, is used so that it can be hung from the belt or Obi, so that it does not slip". In this way, coins, a tobacco pouch, a brush and ink case, etc. could be carried on      the belt.

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In the 19th century, the inhabitants of large Japanese cities began to demand a more sophisticated type of netsuke, which would identify them according to their refinement and purchasing power. The subject matter was very varied: gods, minor divinities, mythological characters and animals, as well as floral motifs and genre scenes.

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