This adorable plush resembles a little rabbit netsuke in The Met collection. Carved out of wood in the 19th century during Japan's Edo (1615-1868) or Meiji period (1868-1912), this practical figurine would have been used to attach inrō-pouches or cases for small items including tobacco and medicine-to the sash of one's kimono. While netsuke were utilitarian objects, they were carefully crafted by highly skilled artisans. Zodiac animals such as the rabbit were commonly depicted. Click here to lea
