Antique Japanese Ivory 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.

Sold to 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)