From voluptuous ghosts to abstract animals, from geometric forms to unique personal interpretations of Japanese myths and legends, the figures and mythical creatures that Michael Birch portrays in his netsuke are sometimes amusing, sometimes alarming, yet always superbly realized pieces of miniature art, carved from some of the most beautiful and challenging natural materials available. More than 150 of his fiercely collected pieces were specially photographed for this gorgeous book—the most complete monograph of Birch's netsuke yet published—and are joined with as many more images of the rest of his art, including larger sculptures, paintings, sumi-e brush works, and pottery.