Netsuke, 18th century (464-1904)

The netsuke is a toggle. Japanese men used netsuke to suspend various pouches and containers from their sashes by a silk cord. Netsuke had to be small and not too heavy, yet bulky enough to do the job. They needed to be compact with no sharp protruding edges, yet also strong and hardwearing. Above all they had to have the means of attaching the cord. In this example, there are a pair of holes (himotoshi) on the bottom of the sandal.

Although netsuke were made in a variety of forms, the most widely appreciated is the katabori (shape carving). This is a three-dimensional carving, such as this netsuke. Shoki is a popular figure in Japanese folklore and a recurring theme in netsuke. Known as the Demon Queller, Shoki is represented with a fearsome exterior, large stature and grimacing expression seen to frighten away oni or demons. By capturing or exorcising such demons Shoki could prevent illness, plagues and misfortunes that could harm the Japanese populace. Shoki originally trained as a physician at the court of the Chinese Emperor but due to his ugly exterior was prevented from serving the court. His shame made him take his life and the Emperor, in his sorrow, granted Shoki a burial with the highest honours. Out of respect for the Emperor Shoki would continue to repel oni. This netsuke depicts Shoki's large and heroic figure as he seeks out oni. It is realistic carved illustrating Shoki's flowing locks of hair and large searching eyes.

Both wood and ivory were traditionally the most widely used materials for making netsuke. This example is carved from ivory, which was an expensive luxury material. At the time this netsuke was carved, only ivory from the Indian elephant was used and was imported by Chinese and Dutch traders. Shoki hunting a demon under a waterfall.