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Artist/Maker
Unknown artist, Japanese
DateEarly 19th century
MediumIvory
DimensionsOverall: 5.4 x 2.5 cm (2 1/8 x 1 in.)
Credit LineGift of Robert S. Wolfe, Class of 1967
Object number1992.15
On view
DescriptionThe word netsuke is formed using the symbol ne (根) meaning “root" and tsuke (付) meaning “attach.” The first netsuke were created in late sixteenth-century Japan as simple button fasteners for pouches and other containers that were hung on the sash (obi 帯) of a kimono. As time progressed, the carving of these small figures became increasingly intricate as netsuke transformed from purely functional objects into fashionable indicators of status. Netsuke commonly depict imagery from nature, myth, and Japanese history. Beginning in the late nineteenth century, netsuke also became a popular type of collectible in the West.
Netsuke - standing carved ivory man with moving penis. Two holes between arms for stringing.
Additional Details
Unknown artist, Japanese
Date: 19th century
Medium: Ivory, wood, metal
Object number: 1992.14
Unknown artist, Japanese
Date: possibly 19th century
Medium: Tagua nut
Object number: 1992.11
Unknown artist, Japanese
Date: 19th century
Medium: Boxwood, mother-of-pearl
Object number: 1992.13
Unknown artist, Japanese
Date: 19th century
Medium: Carved wood
Object number: 1992.17.2
Unknown artist, Japanese
Date: 20th century
Medium: Carved boxwood
Object number: 1992.12
Lorna Simpson
Date: 1996
Medium: Portfolio of 21 photogravures with text printed on 30C (300 lbs.) Somerset paper.
Object number: 2016.11
Reuben Tam
Date: 1960-1963
Medium: Black brush and tusch lithograph on ivory wove paper
Object number: 1991.219
Date: c. 1875
Medium: Moosehide pouch with ivory containing 58 wooden pegs with paint
Object number: 1984.503.1-59
Unknown artist
Date: 1st century
Medium: Ivory (?) on stone
Object number: 2023.10.90
William H. Beard
Date: 1878
Medium: Oil on canvas, mounted on masonite
Object number: 1971.1