Description
It has a flat rectangular shape and is divided into five layers. A string was passed to both sides of each step, fastened with netting to prevent falls. Furthermore, the string was sandwiched between bands.
This Inro has a gorgeous appearance. The Makie (蒔絵) technique is used for making its ornamental look. The Makie is a typical Japanese lacquer art technique developed uniquely in Japan for about 1200 years. Firstly, it needs to draw a picture with lacquer on the surface with a thin brush. Next, sprinkle the gold powder from above to show the pattern before the lacquer hardens. This technique makes a gorgeous and elegant look to works, as you see in this Inro case.
You will find the beautiful Kujaku (孔雀, peacock) resting under the cherry blossom tree. According to a theory, the Kujaku was brought to Japan in the Asuka (飛鳥, 592/593-710) period. Kujakus eat poisonous insects and harmful insects. Due to their strong vitality, some people believed the Kujaku would exorcize evil spirits. Also, as they have a high fertility rate, they are considered the symbol of the prosperity of descendants. Based on this meaning, we imagine that people have treated the Kujaku as an auspicious existence.
The backside depicts pine trees growing on the rocky stretch at the waterside. The waves are washing against these stones; this scenery would make you feel the tough vitality of the pine tree. As pine trees keep their green color throughout the years by withstanding severe heat and cold, people thought this plant pattern represents eternal youth. And it is said its green color was thought it represents longevity and prosperity.
The Ojime (緒締, part between the Inro case and the Netsuke) is a component that prevents the Inro case will open, and it also has another role in combining two strings into one. The motif of this work’s Ojime has a simple ball design. The Netsuke (根付, miniature sculpture, fastener) is also decorate with the Makie technique, same as the Inro case.
We hope you enjoyed this description, and we wish this Inro would speak to you.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
What is Inro?
Inro is a small container for carrying medicine and tobacco leaves. In the Edo period, Samurai had a habit of carrying regular medicines in Inro, which were used daily and were popular as accessories that represent Edo crafts.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
【Payment method】
We accept payment through Stripe (Credit card), PayPal, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD, EUR or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【Shipping duration】
We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order. We will use DHL instead for those who ordered from Canada or Australia as EMS temporarily stops shipping to these countries due to COVID-19. We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by either EMS or DHL (Australia, Canada only). If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
We will inform you of the order’s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.
*Please keep in mind that due to the spread of COVID-19, there might be possible delays in delivery. If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.
It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of Inro and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more Antique items for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite item.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/