ORIGINAL NETSUKE OF TWO EMBRACING HARES SCULPTURE OF 17th CENTURY JAPANESE ART

This small wooden carving is a netsuke of two embracing rabbits. The object is a netsuke, a type of miniature sculpture that was a popular art form in 17th-century Japan. Netsuke were originally functional toggles used to secure a pouch or case (inro) to a kimono sash, featuring two small holes in the bottom for a cord, which you see in the last picture It is made of carved wood, possibly boxwood or teak, materials commonly used for such items. The intricate, hand-carved nature of the piece is typical of this art form.The carving depicts two animals, likely a mother and baby embracing, which embodies themes of love and harmonious atmosphere often found in such figurines. Animal subjects were prevalent during the golden age of netsuke carving.The style is consistent with Japanese or Chinese folk art and antique animal figurines. The signature helps identify the artist, known as a netsuke-shi
From my collection of rabbit items. Rabbits are in netsuke, often symbolize harmony& prosperity