Ivory netsuke showing a mother breastfeeding a child, Japan, 1701-1900
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Netsuke are toggle-like ornaments. They hang objects such as medicine boxes or tobacco pouches from the sash of the kimono, the traditional form of Japanese dress. This example is carved from ivory and shows a mother breastfeeding a child.
Object number:
A641100
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: breast feeding
The process of synthesising milk from the breasts, usually a child from its mother.
Glossary: nursing
The study and practice of caring for and waiting on the sick, injured, or others unable to look after themselves or to deal with their specific medical needs.
Glossary: netsuke
Small ornamental object carved in wood or ivory. Netsuke were used as toggles (buttons) for Japanese kimonos or pouches in the 1600s.