Tiger
late 18th century
Medium
Ivory
Dimensions
H. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm); W. 1 3/4 in. (4.4 cm); D. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm)
Classification
Netsuke
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Russell Sage, 1910
Accession Number
10.211.1099
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite ivory netsuke, titled *Tiger* and carved by the artist Raku in the late 18th century during Japan's Edo period (16151868), exemplifies the mastery of miniature sculpture in Asian art. Measuring just 1⅜ inches high, 1¾ inches wide, and1¼ inches deep, pocket-sized toggle was designed to secure small pouches or inro (lacquered medicine cases) to a kimono sash, as traditional Japanese garments lacked pockets. Crafted from ivory, a prized material for its smooth carvability and luminous quality, the piece captures the tiger's powerful form with remarkable detail—likely showcasing Rak...