Netsuke by Kokei. Rabbit and its young, Japan 19th century

Wooden netsuke by Kokeï
A rabbit with its young. Netsuke carved in cherry wood by Kokei. The himotoshi is naturally formed by a paw. Unlike most netsuke bearing Kokei's signature which are fakes or plagiarisms, this one is attributed to the artist, indeed the quality is excellent, everything is perfect, the volumes, the precision of the sculpture, the expression of the animals and the feeling of life that emerges from it. The signature is engraved under a hind paw.
Japan early 19th century. 42mm.
Good condition, no restoration, beautiful patina, slightly worn. A superb netsuke worthy of being housed in the most beautiful collections.