This carved wood netsuke by Ouchi Sosui depicts a monkey, exemplifying the miniature sculptural tradition that flourished during Japan's Showa period. Created by a master artisan active in the early to mid 20th century, the work demonstrates the refined carving techniques and naturalistic animal portraiture characteristic of netsuke artists of this era. Netsuke functioned as practical ornaments worn on the kimono sash, yet Sosui's signed example reflects the high artistic standards that elevated these small sculptures to collectible works of fine art.