Incense burner in the shape of a rabbit late 18th-early 19th century

This is an incense burner in the shape of a rabbit, crafted by Murata Seimin. The rabbit here is no mere animal; it's a symbol deeply embedded in cultural narratives of Japan and beyond, associated with the moon, longevity, and cleverness. Consider the rabbit as it appears across cultures. From the folklore of East Asia, where it grinds the elixir of immortality on the moon, to the European tales of the Easter Bunny, its image is remarkably consistent as a bringer of life and renewal. This motif taps into something primal – a collective memory of nature's cycles and the hope for regeneration. The choice of the rabbit form for an incense burner is particularly compelling, as smoke curls from the rabbit, it evokes the alchemical transformation, hinting at purification and spiritual ascent. The emotional pull of this little sculpture lies in its embodiment of these ancient associations, engaging us on a subconscious level with the promise of renewal and the eternal cycle of life.