Toyoaki Suzuki, born in 1955, is a Japanese artist considered one of the greatest contemporary masters in the art of netsuke carving. He began his career at a young age, honing an exceptional technique that combines a deep respect for tradition with a distinctive stylistic innovation. His works, crafted primarily from boxwood (*tsuge*), are renowned for their incredible level of detail, realism, and the sense of vitality he instills in his subjects. His preferred themes include the animal world, particularly insects and amphibians, mythological figures, and scenes from daily life, often characterized by a subtle humor. For his extraordinary mastery and his contribution to the preservation of this art form, in 2018 the Japanese government awarded him the title of "Living National Treasure," the highest honor bestowed upon an artist in the country, officially designating him as a Holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property. His creations are exhibited in prestigious museums and are sought after by collectors worldwide.