Netsuke, ivory, around 1920, size 5.4 cm. About the motif: In Japanese mythology, rats are often associated with Daikokuten (7 gods of luck), here with the god of wealth. They are considered his companions because they appear where there is rich food (symbolizing abundance). The turtle represents wisdom and long life. The animals sit on a beehive. Bees are revered for important pollination and honey production. More of these small objects can be found under "Search: Netsuke". [hint: this is an automatic translation from German]   |   Category: folk arts   |   Material: Elfenbein   |   Country of origin: Bayern, Deutschland | Similar pieces