Antique Japanese Netuke Accessory, 1927 - 1945 (Early Showa) | SKU: 26M-730

Japanese Netsuke Fish Figurine | Antique Desk Accent & Collector's Display, 1927-1945 (Early Showa), SKU 26M-730

A boldly cast brass fish netsuke with rich red lacquer patina -- a rare and tactile treasure from early Showa Japan.

A netsuke is a miniature Japanese toggle carving, traditionally worn as a functional fastener on the cord of an inro (medicine case) or tobacco pouch suspended from the kimono sash. Over centuries, netsuke evolved into a celebrated art form, with carvers competing to render animals, mythological figures, and everyday scenes in extraordinary detail within a palm-sized form. This piece takes the form of a plump, naturalistic fish -- likely a koi or sea bream (tai), both auspicious symbols in Japanese culture associated with good fortune and abundance. Cast in brass and finished with a deep red lacquer coating, the surface is alive with precisely incised scales, articulated fins, and a boldly modeled round eye. The warm, mottled patina that has developed over decades -- where the lacquer has worn to reveal flashes of underlying brass -- gives the piece an exceptional wabi-sabi depth that no reproduction could replicate.

Today, this handcrafted Japanese antique makes a compelling living room accent or home office conversation piece. Displayed on a shelf, tray, or beside a stack of books, its compact sculptural form brings an authentic touch of Japanese folk craft to minimalist decor or Japandi-style interiors. It would also sit beautifully on a writing desk as a paperweight or alongside other Japanese antique collectibles in a curated display. A unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone drawn to the artistry of vintage Japanese craft -- this small but powerful object carries centuries of tradition in the palm of your hand.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Brass with red lacquer finish; aged patina with natural wear
• Use: Netsuke toggle accessory; ornamental fish figurine
• Modern Use: Decorative desk accent or paperweight; living room shelf display; gift for collectors of Japanese antiques
• Features: Finely incised scale texture covering the entire body; articulated dorsal, pectoral, and tail fins; boldly modeled round eye; rich red lacquer over brass with areas of exposed metal showing natural age patina; compact, hand-filling form consistent with traditional netsuke proportions
• Dimensions: 4"W x 2 1/2"H
• Condition: Good -- lacquer shows natural wear and patchy loss consistent with age and use; underlying brass visible in worn areas; no structural damage; overall integrity excellent

A rare and tactile piece of Japanese antique craft -- this brass fish netsuke brings the artistry and auspicious symbolism of early Showa Japan into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.