19c Hida school ittobori netsuke CROUCHING RAT

Description

19th century 2-toned chosen matsu (Korean pine wood) netsuke of a crouching rat encircled by its own tail. Netsuke is skillfully carved in ittobori (one cut) style characteristic of Hida school with clever use of wood colors and structure to add to the charm of the piece. Excellent sense of volume. For similar examples see Bushell’s “Netsuke familiar & unfamiliar”, p. 128. Eyes inlaid in dark horn, excellent patina. Length 1 7/16 inches.