Carved Wooden Sumo Toad Netsuke

Carved wooden (probably boxwood) Netsuke depicting a toad in traditional Sumo fighting costume. Figure is approximately 5cm tall.

Netsuke are miniature sculptures that originated in 17th century Japan. Initially, they served as simple button fasteners on the cords of inro boxes, which were used to carry small personal items like tobacco, money, and seals.