A Group of Five Japanese Carved Boxwood Netsuke of Oni

Edo period (1615-1868), includes five boxwood carvings of Japanese oni (demons), one is signed by the artist.

Tallest 1 3/4 in.

Collection of Michael and Ingrid Kelly, Worldwide Gallery Antiques, Fredericksburg, Virginia

Japanese netsuke are miniature carved toggles, traditionally used from the 17th century onward to secure inro and other small containers to the kaku obi of a man's kimono. Often crafted from materials such as ivory, wood, or stag antler, they served both functional and decorative roles, evolving into highly collectible sculptural artworks.

Good estate condition.