Snake sitting on a skull (netsuke)

myminifactory

Ivory Netsukes, Small But Mighty Ornaments From Japan's Past. These carved button-like trinkets were once a common sight on the sash of a traditional Japanese kimono, serving as a practical way to suspend small items in place. A striking example is the 19th-century ivory skull netsuke now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This miniature masterpiece stands approximately 4cm tall and offers a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage. The netsuke, an intricately carved ornament, was carefully scanned using cutting-edge macro-photogrammetry techniques to capture its intricate details in stunning clarity. This remarkable object is part of The Minneapolis Institute of Art's impressive collection.