Originally, kimonos had no pockets. Women would tuck personal items they wanted to have close at hand—fans, coin purses, mirrors—into their sleeves. Apparently, men were not into that system, but they still needed to be able to carry their stuff—pipes, pens, tobacco pouches—around.

Hence the creation of the sagemono, a small satchel on a cord. Essentially, a purse. The cord was wrapped around the kimono’s sash and attached using a bead (ojime) and a toggle (netsuke).

These netsukes got absolutely wild—so intricate! So exquisite! So whimsical! Look them up and you’ll see.

I’ve only got two more words to share about this adorable example: That tail!