this is not a netsuke or an okimono,and not from Japan.

It is a replica of an ancient emblem of China,dated to Tang Dynasty,features a so called grass dragon which is found in Northwestern China.

The emblem may have some military significance,as the original is in the hands of an important Chinese family and passed down from generation to generation,the maker obtained permission to make these replica copies.

As you can see from the pictures,the dragon and the surrounding motifs are in raised relief,the piece is over 2 inches long and is not flat,more like a belt buckle lying on flat surface.

Condition very good and made of reconstituted amber.