Octopus Japanese Netsuke
This is not a *real* netsuke - it is a reproduction. Real netsuke were carved out of ivory or wood most of the time, and were 'toggles' at the ends of cords. Sort of like the plastic ends of shoelaces, but a bit more elegant. They were used on small cases, to keep them closed.
In Japanese tradition, the octopus represents the lover, with many arms to hold onto a loved one. Octopusses also represent spirituality, as the smooth head represents that of a praying monk.
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