Netsuke of Masked Figure

Dark brown wooden netsuke, a traditional Japanese toggle, carved into the form of a creature with a large head and open mouth. The creature has a rounded body. The head features a wide open mouth with visible teeth and a protruding tongue. Two small circular eyes are positioned on either side of a central ridge on the forehead. The body is adorned with folds of fabric or clothing, carved in intricate detail. The background is white. A shadow is cast to the left. The piece is titled "Netsuke of Masked Figure" by an unknown artist.