Signed netsuke - Wood - Japan - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

A refined and expressive Japanese netsuke in wood, skillfully carved and patinated.
The work depicts a mother monkey crouched with a tied sack beside her, while a little cub climbs onto her back, clinging in a playful manner.
The sculptural group stands out for the liveliness of the expressions, the softness of the anatomical lines, and the eyes, detailed with dark inlays that give great luminosity to the gaze.
On the underside there are holes for the cord passage (himotoshi) and the artist's signature engraved in Japanese characters.
Dimensions 5.5 cm x 5.5 cm
Weight 17 grams