A WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH CHESTNUT Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A charming study of a rat (nezumi) holding a large chestnut. The rat has full chubby cheeks, large eyes inlaid in horn and the ears are in an alert position. The fur is neatly incised and the thick, finely carved tail curls around over the rodent's back. The underside with himotoshi through the chestnut. HEIGHT 3.2 cm, LENGTH 4 cm Condition: One plus-shaped crack to the side of the rat. Otherwise very good condition. Provenance: British private collection.