Japanese Carved Tiny Shrimp Netsuke painted bluebirds on glass with a bit of aging

with a bit of aging to the surface that I think just adds to its appeal

see photos): a few of the knobs on the drawers are chipped (it appears they have been restrained since)

with one spot of wear on the leather case

and brings a bit of calm in the midst of stress and chaos

Japanese Carved Tiny Shrimp Netsuke painted bluebirds on glass with a bit of agingThere's such a wealth out there of amazing Japanese Netsuke finely carved miniature sculptures that traditionally functioned as sliding beads or toggles securing the cord attaching a sagemono, or carrying pouch, to the obi of a kimono. And the intricate form of a shrimp I think makes for a pretty great subject to showcase the skills of a carver! I believe this tiny one is carved of boxwood, and features teeny tiny inlaid eyeballs. Easily strung on a