Artist unknown, netsuke depicting an oni, Japan, late nineteenth–early twentieth century. Ivory. 13⁄16 × 1 × 1 7⁄16 in. Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John G. Meem, Museum of International Folk Art (A.1964.61.2). Photograph by Addison Doty. Netsuke are decorative toggle beads used to keep inro (small compartments that hold personal items) closed. This netsuke is carved in the shape of an oni, or Japanese goblin or demon. Popular as collector’s items for centuries, netsuke portrayed the interests of their owners, and yōkai were common subjects.