染付子運び唐子形根付|Child Carrying an Infant Netsuke
Unknown Artist
late 18th century
Medium
Porcelain with underglaze blue and overglaze enamels (Hirado ware)
Dimensions
H. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm); W. 1 in. (2.5 cm)
Classification
Ceramics
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. V. Everit Macy, 1923
Accession Number
23.225.81
Tags
Art Historical Context
This delightful netsuke, titled *Child Carrying an Infant*, captures a tender moment from everyday Japanese life during the late 18th century Edo period (1615–1868). Crafted as a small toggle for securing pouches to kimono sashes—before pockets were common—these miniature sculptures blended functionality with artistry. At just 1 3/8 inches tall, this piece exemplifies the intricate craftsmanship of Hirado ware, a prized porcelain from the Hirado kilns in Nagasaki, renowned for its fine, ivory-like white body that rivaled ivory carvings. The artwork showcases sophisticated techniques: undergla...