A POWERFUL KYOTO SCHOOL IVORY NETSUKE OF A RAT WITH A BEAN POD Unsigned Japan, Kyoto, early 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A powerful depiction of a rat executed in distinct Kyoto style, with large bulging eyes inlaid in black horn. A smooth bean pod is carved between its body and its tail, with the latter curling around and grasped in the rat’s right hand, while placing its other hand near the mouth. The composition is achieved very naturalistically, with some parallels to be drawn to the rats of the great Masanao from Kyoto. The ears are carved precisely, as is the fur coat. Himotoshi in the reverse. HEIGHT 3.9 cm Condition: A section of the tail in the front has been restored very well. Otherwise good condition, with a very good patina and a few expected age cracks. Provenance: British private collection Auction comparison: A similar Kyoto school ivory rat was sold at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, New York, 20 March 2012, lot 2110.