OKATOMO: A FINE IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH C... Lot n° 45

By Yamaguchi Okatomo, signed Okatomo 岡友 Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A charming ivory netsuke of a rat holding a candle between its front paws, the wick inlaid in dark horn, and raising its left hind paw to scratch its ear. The fur is neatly incised and the very well-carved tail curls around underneath, functioning as the cord attachment. The large eyes are inlaid in lustrous black horn, giving life to the little rodent. The slightly worn ivory with a fine, glossy patina. LENGTH 3.8 cm Condition: Good condition. Some natural age cracks and a small chip to the right hind paw which grabs the tail. Provenance: German private collection, acquired in Japan c. 1980.