Japanese Netsuke

‘You will have a moment of quiet delight and a mood of introspection to carry you away.’ Edmund de Waal.

Prized by collectors from East to West, Japanese netsuke are tiny objects of wonder that originated as utilitarian accessories for traditional Japanese dress. Over the centuries these small carved toggles, designed to hook over the top of the kimono sash, evolved into high-fashion depictions of all aspects of Japanese life.

In this richly illustrated and highly accessible book, Julia Hutt draws on the V&A’s world-famous netsuke collection to explore the origins and techniques of this captivating art form.

About the Author:

Julia Hutt is Curator of Japanese Art in the Asian Department at the V&A. Edmund de Waal is a world-renowned ceramics artist and author of The Hare with the Amber Eyes