Painted(?) brass or bronze mouse figure

I have had this guy for quite some time and really can't remember where I got it. I'm just throwing out there to see if anyone knows if there was any special significance to this little casting. An Asian talisman of some sort maybe??? As seen in 1st photo it's right at 2 3/4" long and does have some age to it as there is a nice little bit of patina to the metal on tail and ear where "paint" was rubbed off. I am pretty sure it is brass, but bronze is a possibility. Thanks for looking and any suggestions greatly appreciated.