| A fuchi-kashira set depicting a group of rabbits. Since ancient times, rabbits have been regarded as auspicious animals symbolizing prosperity and abundant descendants because of their prolific nature. They have also long been associated with the legend of the Moon Rabbit.This charming work portrays a group of rabbits in takabori with iroe zōgan on a shakudō nanako ground. Their rounded bodies, long ears, and keen eyes are rendered with remarkable realism and a strong sense of three-dimensionality. The soft texture of their fur is skillfully expressed through meticulous carving.The artist Hidetomo was a student of Ōmori Teruhide and also signed his works “Ōmori Monjin Hidetomo” (Hidetomo, disciple of the Ōmori school). The lively and naturalistic treatment of the rabbits reflects the artistic traditions of the Ōmori school.Passed the NBTHK Hozon Tosogu shinsa in 2006. |