Product Description
A captivating survivor of 19th-century Japan, this signed four-case inro is beautifully decorated with an atmospheric landscape of water, trees and birds picked out in delicate gold lacquer.
Comprising four fitted sections, the inro measures approximately 8.5 cm x 6 cm and retains its traditional suspension cord. The finely detailed decoration and compact form demonstrate the remarkable artistry that transformed these once-practical objects into highly collectable examples of Japanese decorative art.
An inro was a small compartmented case traditionally suspended from the obi sash of a kimono. As traditional Japanese clothing had no pockets, inro were used to carry medicines, seals and other small personal possessions. During the Edo and Meiji periods, increasingly elaborate examples became prized objects in their own right, decorated by skilled lacquer artists with landscapes, animals, plants and other traditional subjects.
A wonderful addition to a collection of Japanese lacquerware or inro, and a particularly thoughtful gift for a collector or someone with an appreciation for Japanese history and craftsmanship.
Each piece in our collection carries the subtle marks of time, adding to its authenticity and charm. Any notable details are thoughtfully included in the description and imagery. Should you wish to see more, we are always happy to assist.