Unsigned, kaki wood netsukeJapan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)The rabbit (usagi) is the fourth sign of the Japanese zodiac and known in this context simply as U. A calm netsuke, showing the rabbit in a seated position and with long ears attached to its body. One of its paws is raised as if greeting. The grain of the wood is a beautiful alternating black and brown, typical of yew wood. Himotoshi on the underside.HEIGHT 3.5 CMCondition: Good condition, minor nicks and scratches to the surface of the woodProvenance: British private collection with two valuations from Sotheby's, by Neil K. Davey, dated 1974 & 1984, inventory no. 29Auction comparison: Compare to another hare from the same material offered at Bonhams, The Julius and Arlette Katchen Collection of Fine Netsuke Part III, London, 6 November 2018, lot 54.