Inrō

This four-case 'inrō', in brownish lacquer with gold decoration in relief attained by the application of powdered gold, in 'takamie' technique, depicts a lakeside scene in which we can see, between rocks, pine trees, bamboo, plum trees and storks, all elements symbolically linked to longevity. The signature Jokwasai is visible on the inside. The 'ojime', cylindrical in shape is decorated with stylised flowers while the netsuke, sculpted in red lacquer has the form of a mask.
The 'inrō' is a small portable case, usually in a flattened, elliptical shape, made up of various compartments that fit perfectly one on top of the other remarkably watertight. They were generally used to carry medicinal plants and powders and were suspended from the kimono 'sash'. The boxes are joined by silk cords that hold them together, the ends of which are fastened by the 'ojime', a kind of round bead, which keeps the cases together. The ends of the cord are finished off by 'thenetsuke' that acts as a button and prevents the inrofrom slipping from the belt.