Netsuke

Netsuke, pronounced ‘nets'keh’ became popular in European countries by the turn of the 19th century but debuted in the 17th century. It consists of carvings, usually of wood and ivory, and it is one of those versatile pieces.

The Netsuke can be functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. For instance, the Netsuke, when paired with a sliding bead or ojime, was able to fasten the kimono dress.

It was also used to hold purses together, and although the kimono is hardly worn in Japan, the netsuke is still exported and has quite a fan base with collectors. The going price of a netsuke in London is over 140,000 British pounds.