Daruma the Japanese name for Bodhidharma, was the twenty-eighth Indian patriarch of Zen Buddhism. He was born into an Indian royal family in the early sixth century. He traveled to China as …

Mushrooms and other fungus are common subjects for netsuke. The mushrooms are typically shown as groupings of full mushrooms, as if they were growing in a field. The mushroom shown here is …

Many people have enjoyed collecting Netsuke unique pieces of art. Most are initially captivated by the fine features and exceptional sculpting displayed in these little creatures. Some people appreciate “trick” carvings, like …

Every traditional netsuke carver makes his own tools. They must be appropriate for his carving style and comfy for him to carve. Although the term “carving” is commonly used, the majority of …

Netsuke Japanese Life and Legend in Miniature introduces you to the legends, stories, and people who contribute to Japan’s exceptionally rich artistic legacy. Netsuke have been made from practically every possible material. …

Netsuke were historically used to carry a pocketbook, tobacco pouch, pipe case, or anything else that could be hanging from the obi in addition to the inro. Someone cut the stick to …