NETSUKE: RAT WITH CANDLE.
Japan. Edo period. Late 18th c.

Ivory with golden-yellow patina; finely engraved and stained details; the eyes and candlewick inlaid dark horn. The rat nibbles at its prey; which it is holding with its fore-paws. Height 2.4cm; width 4cm. Sign.: Okatomo in rectangular reserve; cf. MCI p. 619; Ky魌o School. Condition A/B. Age cracks; the tip of the tail missing and repolished.

Provenance:
-Collection Storno.

Please note that objects made of ivory; rhinoceros horn and turtle shell; due to Cites regulations can only be sold within the European Community. At present the export in third countries is prohibited.
Art trade; Van Ham.