Description
This item is a set of two Inro cases. It was initially set as a “Meoto (夫婦, couple)” item and is perfect for couples to have together. We believe it will be appreciated as a gift.
The Guri-Bori (倶利彫) technique is used for these Inros. The Guri-bori is a technique in which dozens of metals of different colors (such as copper or Shakudou) are layered alternately, and the Karakusa (唐草, arabesque) or the Uzumaki (渦巻, spiral) patterns are carved into the surface. Since the technique of Mokume Gane (木目金) is the technique of further forging the metal that has been dug down using the method of Guri-Bori, it could be said that Guri-Bori is the original technique of Mokume Gane.
The Ojime (緒締, part between the Inro case and the Netsuke) is a component that prevents the Inro case from opening, and it also has another role in combining two strings into one. The Ojimes of this set Inros seem to be made of the same material.
On the other hand, the motif of Netsuke (根付, miniature sculpture, fastener) is different for each Inro. The red-colored Inro’s Netsuke is modeled as a Noh mask of Okina (翁, older man). And the black-colored Inro’s Netsuke expresses a frog. In Japanese, several expressions have the same pronunciation as “Kaeru.” For example, Fuku-Kaeru (福かえる, happiness will return), Okane-Kaeru (お金かえる, the money will come back), or Buji-Kaeru (無事かえる, someone will come back safely), etcetera. Based on these wordplays, the frog pattern has been treated as an auspicious motif. The third example: “Buji-Kaeru,” would match the Samurai’s wish to return from the battlefields.
We hope you enjoyed this description and 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, CHF 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 offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. 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.
*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 antique item 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/
