Netsuke (literal translation: to attach the root) came into existence as early as the 15th - 16th century. As the Japanese had no pockets in their kimonos, they had to find a method to carry small belongings, and a convenient way was a leather pouch attached to long double strings and pulled through the obi (a long sash or belt which was worn around the kimono). The netsuke, which always has openings through which the string passes, acted as a toggle, holding the pouch in place. Early netsuke were purely utilitarian, being fashioned of small stones, pieces of bamboo and other woods, shells and gourds. Here the Freer and Sackler Shop has collected an extraordinary collection of unusual and highly detailed resin netsuke. Figures are approximately .75"-2" high. Netsuke Display Stand $40.00 Seated Tartar Warrior $20.00 Disguised Fox Holding Fish $20.00 Tigress and Two Cubs $20.00 Dancing Fox $20.00 Japanese Standing Cat Sculpture $20.00 Puppy with Toad $20.00 Goat and Kid $20.00 Sleeping Cat $20.00 Okame $20.00 Rabbit Pair $20.00 Two Shojo $20.00 Buddhist Angel $20.00 Benten $20.00 Sambaso Dancer $20.00 Free domestic UPS shipping for all ordes over $50.00. Don't see what you are looking for? Have questions or comments? Email us at fsgonlineshop@si.edu. All presented material is copyright © Smithsonian Institution, 2008, except where otherwise noted.