A RARE AND UNUSUAL TRICK WOOD NETSUKE OF A RAKAN AND FOXUnsignedJapan, probably Edo (Tokyo), 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The rakan (arhat) seated leaning against a large ittobori-carved rock, the interior inset with a minutely carved painted fox priest which springs out and is secured by a mechanism to the side, scaring the rakan, the separately carved Buddhist disciple amusingly unaware of its presence. The combination of techniques used on this netsuke is quite unusual, the face of the rakan carved with exquisite detail reminiscent of the Edo school. Natural himotoshi to the rock.HEIGHT 3.1 cm (without the fox being extended)Condition: Very good condition, minor wear.