Animals from the Japanese zodiac in miniature made in the 18th and 19th century are on display at the Chester Beatty library in Dublin until March 23. The twelve zodiac animals – rat, ox, tiger, hare (rabbit), dragon, snake, horse, goat (sheep), monkey, rooster, dog and boar (pig) – represent the 12 year cycles in Asia.
On display are tiny sculptures known as Netsuke in the shape of these animals carved from materials such as wood, ivory or metal which tell the story of these animals. In the Edo period (1615-1868) men used netsuke as toggles to secure personal items like money pouches and smoking accessories which they hung from their sashes. Netsuke became fashion statements and inspired artists to express a wide variety of motifs. Originally derived from the ancient Chinese astrological calendar the display highlights how these stories were uniquely developed in Japan. 2025 is the Year of the Snake, a symbol of revival and renewal in Japan.
