A calf of a water buffalo snuggles up to its mother in this charming netsuke. The exceptional piece was carved by Hong Kong artist Wangshan (旺山) whose specialty appears to have been depicting water buffalos (see also object 4555). The head of the calf is especially well carved. The mother has a rope tied around her horns and through her nose. The eyes of both animals are inlaid and the fur is finely engraved. Height 2.5 cm. Width 4.6 cm. Depth 4.1 cm.