19c Rantei School netsuke Zodiac RABBIT

Description

19th century
netsuke carved out of antler of sika deer species “Cervus nippon” (also called Japanese deer, conservation status “Least Concern”) in a form of a crouching rabbit with alert face. Excellent quality carving perfectly capturing the essence of the creature, wonderful incised fur, eyes are inlaid with light translucent horn. The work is clearly done by a carver from the Rantei lineage, with staghorn being very unusual material for that school. Beautiful wear consistent with age, superb patina, himotoshi formed by its left paws. Length 1 7/16 inches.