By Unhodo Masayoshi, Edo period (1615-1868), mid-19th century Comprising a litter of several rats of different sizes clambering over each other to reach scattered bean pods, the two larger adult rats forming the base at the bottom, one clutching a bean pod in its forepaws, the pupils inlaid in pale or dark horn; signed Unhodo Masayoshi saku within a shell-inlaid reserve. 16cm (6¼in) high.