Boxwood, delicately carved, engraved, and slighty darkly stained. Inlaid eyes made of dark horn. Tightly coiled snake lying with pointed fangs and attentive look. W.3.8cm. Signed: Tadashige on rectangular reserve in delicate relief, Owari, one of the few Netsuke artists who was awarded the title 'Hogen'. Condition A/B. Small material defect.