Tiger 1767 - 1799

This small, intricately carved netsuke, "Tiger," was created by the renowned Japanese artist, Raku. The sculpture, crafted from ivory during the late 18th century, depicts a tiger in a seated pose, its tail curled around its body. The artist employed a technique of meticulous carving and inlaying to create realistic detail, highlighting the animal's fur and stripes, showcasing a remarkable mastery of the medium. This netsuke, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the Raku tradition.