Antique
Japanese Netsuke Zodiac
Rat
Couching on Acorn
Signature: unsigned, Circa: mid 19th Century
H 2.5 in.(6.3cm), W 1.25 in.(3cm), D 0.75 in.(2cm)
Condition: excellent! This
finely rendered netsuke sumptuously carved from stag antler exhibits ingenious
form, design and detail. Curved around an acorn, this rat flourishes a life-like
tail, a bristled pelt and gleaming black coral (umimatsu) eyes. The rodent's ears
are quivered back, a moment away from twitching. Unsigned, this 19th century tactile
netsuke is an excellent example of the high artistry of the period.
Private Collection |
| The
Rat ,the first sign in the Chinese Zodiac, in Japan is considered an auspicious
messenger from Daikoku, the Japanese protector god of wealth and the beneficent
patron of farmers. In Japan, before the advent of Western time keeping, the day
was divided into two-hour increments that followed the Chinese zodiac cycle. The
Hour of the Rat, the first hour of the day was from 11:00 PM -1:00 AM. (SD)
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