Netsuke
early 19th century (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
The netsuke (a kind of toggle) on the right shows the ability of the tanuki to transform into human shape. Here it is depicted in the robes of a priest. The tanuki (often mistakenly referred to as raccoon-dog or a badger) has perhaps received the most attention in legend and in depictions in Japanese art. He is usually regarded as mischievous and is frequently associated with the fox, for both characters perform similar kinds of magical tricks and both have the ability to transform themselves into human form to deceive or annoy people.
Object details
| Category | |
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Carved ivory |
| Brief description | Scu, Japan, dress accessories, ivory |
| Physical description | This netsuke shows the ability of the Tanuki to transform into human shape. Here he is depicted in the robes of a priest. The Tanuki (often mistakenly referred to as raccoon-dog or as a badger) has perhaps received the most attention in legend and in depictions in Japanese art. He is usually regarded as mischievous and is frequently associated with the fox, for both characters perform similar kinds of magical tricks and both have the ability to transform themselves into human form to deceive or annoy people. |
| Dimensions |
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| Style | |
| Object history | Bequeathed by Mr. George Salting, accessioned in 1910. This acquisition information reflects that found in the Asia Department registers, as part of a 2022 provenance research project. |
| Summary | The netsuke (a kind of toggle) on the right shows the ability of the tanuki to transform into human shape. Here it is depicted in the robes of a priest. The tanuki (often mistakenly referred to as raccoon-dog or a badger) has perhaps received the most attention in legend and in depictions in Japanese art. He is usually regarded as mischievous and is frequently associated with the fox, for both characters perform similar kinds of magical tricks and both have the ability to transform themselves into human form to deceive or annoy people. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | A.917-1910 |
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| Record created | February 25, 2003 |
| Record URL |
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