《Characteristics》
Netsuke (literally meaning roots to attach) is a button-like toggle which men in pocketless kimono use. It is in the form of the stopper used for safely fastening hanging belongings such as sash-type purse, pipe, tobacco pouch and inro (pillbox) to prevent dropping. They put them on their robes' sashes to hang belongings by cords.

It is said that netsukes were originated about 400 years ago. In the early era, their designs were simple but as time went by, artisans produced more elaborately designed netsukes that evolved from practical tools to artworks.

While their materials vary from ivory, horn, wood, bamboo and so on, artisans use boxwood collected from Mt. Asama in Mie Pref., West Japan, for Ise netsuke.

Boxwood is called "Jewel wood" because they grow slowly in the cold weather and poor mountain soil. It takes for about 50 to 60 years to have only 6cm in diameter.

Its texture is hard, flexible and can be bent to allow the delicate work without breaking.

Nestukes are made in many shapes and decorated with various subjects from the Chinese zodiac to beauties of nature. Frog or toad might be one of the most favorite carved animals because "frog" in Japanese "kaeru" also means "return/to return" and toad for "hiku" meaning "attract/call". Shop owners in the shrine area appreciate puns such as "buji kaeru (safely return)" or "kyaku o hiku (calls customers)" for the business success.

[Mie prefecture-designated folk craft]
Information provided by: Ise Netsuke Museum (manufacturing and others),
Ise Region Traditional Craft Preservation Society (data)

Translation by: Eri Hara