TOMONOBU: A WOOD NETSUKE OF A BITCH AND TWO PUPS By Tomonobu, signed Tomonobu Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) A charming study of a reclining bitch with two pups, one nestling up to her underneath her head and the other climbing onto her back. The wood of a very good color, with a fine dark red hue, especially visible on the underside. Signature TOMONOBU next to the udders of the female dog on the underside. LENGTH 4.5 cm Condition: One leg of the reclining puppy is chipped. Otherwise good condition. Provenance: British private collection. Probably the Tomonobu mentioned as from the Tomochika school, however the tone of the wood could suggest Nagoya school, which could make it a very unusual subject by Arima Tomonobu.