Netsuke, Rakan wrestling with a demon, Japan, 19th century

The netsuke is a toggle. Above all they had to have the means of attaching the cord. This is a three-dimensional carving, such as this netsuke of a demon wrestling with a rakan (disciple of Buddha).

This finely carved netsuke exaggerates the on i's grotesque appearance through its detailed features, such as its jowls, bulging eyes, sharp teeth and two protruding horns that neatly contrast to the smooth finely formed features of the disciple. The netsuke illustrates the struggle of the devilish nature of the oni against the pure and innocent nature of the disciple. The most widely used materials for making netsuke were traditionally wood or ivory. Since trees grow abundantly throughout Japan, wood is readily available and many varieties are comparatively cheap. There is also a long tradition of expertise in woodcarving in Japan.

The small size of netsuke often makes identification of the wood used impossible. This example, however, can be identified as boxwood. This wood is ideal for netsuke carving, as it has a fine, dense and even grain, while also being durable. It has a pale and creamy colour that acquires an attractive patina, or it can be polished to a high lustre. Netsuke in wood stained brown of a Rakan wrestling with a demon on a lotus leaf, signed on a mother-of-pearl plaque Ho Riomin. The demon has its arm over Rakan. On its head are positioned two ivory horns.