Netsuke [Mokugyo] c. late 19th century

Curator: Here we have a "Netsuke [Mokugyo]," a charming miniature carving dating from the late 19th century. This piece, crafted from wood and possibly ivory, resides here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: It has this almost eerie, quiet presence. It looks like a gazing ball in a garden… except carved. The texture seems so smooth, and those dragon-like handles make me think of old myths. Curator: The “mokugyo” element—the wooden fish—speaks volumes. In Zen Buddhism, this instrument is struck during chanting to maintain focus and rhythm, the fish's perpetually open eyes symbolizing wakefulness. So even this miniature, as a netsuke, serves as a constant, tactile reminder. Editor: So it's meant to be carried, touched… like a tiny anchor to mindfulness. It is cool how something functional gets transformed into such an intricate object. Look at how those dragon handles cradle a little pearl or ball. It’s a world within a world! Curator: Precisely. The netsuke, traditionally used to suspend small pouches or containers from the obi sash of a kimono, transcends mere utility. Over time it became a canvas for symbolism, wit, and incredible craftsmanship. Each curve, line, and detail invites interpretation. And like a rosary, you can have these figures always on you! Editor: I’m imagining the artisan who created it – so much patience! Carving something so delicate... I find it strangely comforting knowing someone, a long time ago, obsessed over something so small. Makes our daily chaos feel a bit… smaller too, doesn't it? Curator: Indeed. These objects capture the very human impulse to seek beauty and meaning even within the most quotidian elements of our lives. Its diminutive size held enormous cultural and personal resonance. Editor: Yeah, a small echo of ancient traditions in a beautifully contained form. Makes you consider how everyday things hold greater potential significance.