Netsuke (in English, root attachment) can be of many designs, their function was to secure such items as the inro (seal box) to the obi (sash), by means of a cord passing through two holes within the netsuke. The cords of the inro could be tightened by the ojime (bead), which might be of the same material as the netsuke, or some contrasting medium, as suited the taste of the wearer. This netsuke is carved as a mouse nibbling at its tail.

dPresented by John Feeney.