Vintage Late Meiji Era Hand Carved Boxwood Netsuke (Early 1900s)

This is a Netsuke from the late Meiji Era (early 1900's) Japan. This Netsuke sculpture features the form of a "Mokugyo", a Japanese woodblock instrument used in Buddhist ceremonies and is skillfully carved from boxwood and features the image of two Shachihoko (Dragon Fish) from Japanese Mythology. It is also marked with the carver's signature (pictured). Overall in excellent condition given the age and a great addition to any collection! See Photos. What is a Netsuke? Netsuke are small Japanese sculptures, originally designed as decorative toggles for securing sagemono (hanging objects) to the obi (sash) of a kimono. They were a practical solution for carrying small items like medicine boxes, pouches, coin purses, and writing implements, as kimonos had no pockets. Over time, netsuke evolved into highly collectible art forms, often crafted from materials like ivory, wood, and metal, and featuring intricate carvings.