A young boy rests his head on his knees and seems to doze off. His shaven head and straw sandals identify him as a novice in a monastery. The artist has however pimped up his carving with the elaborate decoration of the boy’s cloak which is in strong contrast with the usual simple yellow robes of Buddhist monks. The Bamboo leaves on the back of the boy’s cloak symbolize Humility, Fidelity as well as Peace which tallies perfectly with the peaceful expression on his face. The netsuke is signed Yu Sheng (玉昇). Height 4.3 cm. Width 1.4 cm. Depth 3.2 cm.