Owl Attacking a Bat Netsuke

Traditional Japanese garments lack pockets. Personal items were carried in small containers or pouches that hung on a cord from a man’s kimono sash. Netsuke served as counterweights that held these containers in place. Developed in the early Edo period (1615–1868) and continuing through the 19th century, netsuke evolved into an art form where increasingly detailed and sophisticated examples reflected the wealth, social status, and taste of the wearer.

Ho ̄raku (Japan, active early to mid-19th century), Owl Attacking a Bat, early to mid-19th century, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Raymond and Frances Bushell Collection 

Though the owl motif carried negative connotations when it arrived from China, over time it came to be seen in Japan as a lucky and protective talisman. The bat had long been revered in China as an auspicious symbol, a positive association that it retained when it was adopted by the Japanese. The pairing of these two creatures in Japanese art is rare, and suggests direct observation by the carver.

This is a replica of one of the many netsuke in LACMA’s collection.

- Each netsuke is made from a cast resin with a portion of granulated stone/mineral
- Each netsuke comes in it's chosen color pouch
- Approximate height: 1.5 inches