What is a netsuke?

Some objects of decorative arts are from a time that is different then now. Netsukes are such an item. These objects of art interesting and each one is very unique. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictonary this is what a netsuke is. 

Netsuke

Pronunciation: \ˈnets-(ˌ)kā, -kē, -kealso ˈnet-sü-\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural netsuke ornetsukes

Etymology: Japanese

Date: 1876

: a small and often intricately carved toggle (as of wood or ivory) used to fasten a small container to a kimono sash.

Who would think an object which holds a small container to a kimono could be so interesting.

Edmund De Waal wrote a book which tells the story of a diplomatic family who had a collection of netsuke which was owned for generation by the family.

The name of the book is 

The Hare with Amber Eyes.

http://page247.wordpress.com/2010/12/15/the-hare-with-amber-eyes-by-edmund-de-waal/