This is a beautiful silk money purse or tobacco pouch dating back to the late Edo Period, or about 1850. It is about a third larger than most pouches that are seen, which means it was probably intended for carrying money. It has a fine manju netsuke attached with nine different masks, that is artist signed . It measures 8 5/8" x 4.5" and the condition is very good.
The exterior is decorated with a hoho bird pressed into the leather. The interior is silk lined, with a double pouch. The clasp has a beautifully crafted dragon as does the netsuke. It dates back to the late Edo period, about the mid 19th century or earlier. The pouch measures 5.25" x 3.25" and the netsuke is 2" in diameter. Other than normal wear, condition is excellent.
