Netsuke in de vorm van een tijger c. 1825

This intricately carved netsuke, created by the acclaimed Japanese artist Toyomasa in the early 19th century, depicts a tiger in a playful, almost comical pose. The artist's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rendering of the tiger's stripes and the lifelike texture of its fur, a hallmark of Toyomasa's distinctive style. Netsuke, small toggles traditionally used to fasten items to a sash, were often prized for their exquisite craftsmanship and often served as miniature works of art.