Yoshitomo Nara's "The Little Pilgrim (Night Walking)" is a captivating sculpture that highlights the artist's unique approach to portraying innocence intertwined with a sense of depth and complexity. Created in 2002, this artwork is part of an edition of 20 and is crafted from acrylic on fiberglass. Each piece in this series is meticulously signed, dated, and numbered by Nara himself, underscoring the personal touch and exclusivity of these works. The sculpture measures 26 by 18 by 16 cm, showcasing a detailed and intimate scale that invites close inspection​ (Sothebys.com)​.

"The Little Pilgrim (Night Walking)" features a sleep-walking figure that has appeared in Nara's work since a 1999 solo exhibition. This particular piece is characterized by its smooth, translucent surface, with the figure holding out her hands slightly and keeping her eyes gently closed, evoking the image of a sleeping angel. This imagery is consistent with Nara's exploration of themes related to childhood, vulnerability, and the complex emotions underlying seemingly innocent expressions​ (Yoshitomo Nara)​.

Provenance details reveal the journey of this particular sculpture from a private collection in Los Angeles to being acquired at a Sotheby's auction in New York in May 2004 by its current owner. This history adds a layer of intrigue and narrative to the piece, illustrating its journey through the art world and its resonance with collectors​ (Sothebys.com)​.

"The Little Pilgrim (Night Walking)" exemplifies Yoshitomo Nara's skill in blending innocence with a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the human condition, all while employing a distinctive style that bridges Japanese and Western art influences. The sculpture's detailed execution and the emotional depth it conveys continue to captivate audiences and collectors worldwide.