Rare Antique Grain Painted Ball in Cage Whimsy candleholder Still great looking though

Still great looking though

I guess it is a birdhouse this sweet little fluffy kitty has squeezed itself into

and indeed look rather as if ready to chime

Japan made some pretty good pieces

There is some cracking to the paint on the base

Rare Antique Grain Painted Ball in Cage Whimsy candleholder Still great looking thoughNot the most ornately carved whimsy I've had, but I think it may be my favorite elegantly carved with eye shaped openings on each side exposing a very round ball inside and the very first grain painted whimsy I have ever seen, which is what I think makes it super special. 19th century I'm sure, very carefully painted, and with a terrific patina and presence and sense of age. 4 t x 1 7 8 w x 1 7 8 d and in very good antique condition.