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I just picked this up at an estate sale. Didn’t seem like much at first, but I cannot find another one like it. Age? From where? I’m usually good at identifying materials, but not with this piece. I don’t think it’s stone.
Any ideas?

I am not an expert, just a Japanese language student, but as you mentioned, it's not a stone, so I assume it is not heavy. It could be "kurogaki" (black persimmon wood). A kurogaki miniature of a frog and lotus leaf likely represents endurance, prosperity, and spiritual growth. It's a reminder to embrace transformation and strive for enlightenment despite life's challenges.

There is a test (which I do not recommend) where people heat a needle with pliers and pierce a strategic part of the bottom of the object to determine if the material is resin, ivory, or hardwood. Generally, resin does not resist fire, and I believe wood will leave a characteristic smell. I have never conducted this test myself, although I have sent samples for analysis and, finally, "destroyed" a small piece of a work—in that latter case, it was for a good reason(dating objects). It remains to be seen whether knowing the material of a work is a good reason for this "small destruction".
Hugs from Brazil, I hope you find some expert to tell you more about it.
Renato

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