Boxwood 36 x 38 x 32 mm, Suketada in Takayama, Gifu prefecture, approx. 1870 - 1890.

A river creature (kappa) is depicted with a foot trapped in a giant clam (hamaguri). The contrast between the smooth surface of the shell and the densely detailed texture of the kappa's hair, warty skin, and the patterning on his carapace and feet make this a particular attractive carving.

The kappa is a legendary creature living in rivers whose back is covered by a turtle carapace. Its main distinguishing mark is the indentation on the top of his head which is filled with water of life. If the water is spilled the creature loses its power. The netsuke can be interpreted as a warning of the perils of lust. The kappa, a creature with a reputation of pursuing girls, is caught in the large clam, a symbol of the vulva. The pursuer has in fact had the tables turned on him and it is the kappa, not the girl, which is cornered.