Three Japanese Lacquer Inros with Netsuke and Ojime
Edo to Meiji Period.
Three lacquer inro with associated netsuke and ojime, including:
First a three case red lacquer inro with crane and eagle design of rounded rectangular form, decorated in takamaki-e with a river landscape in tones of gold and brown cranes and eagles on a shu-urushi ground. With a glazed pottery netsuke of a crabs and a white agate ojime. 2.5 in. high.
Second is a four case gold lacquer inro with geometric design. Of rounded rectangular form, decorated in hiramaki-e and kirigane with bands of formal patterns including shippo, kikko, and floral motifs on a nashiji ground, the interiors nashiji. With a carved red lacquer manju netsuke and seed ojime. Condition: good, with minor rubbing to high points. The netsuke and ojime with general wear consistent with age.
Third is three case red lacquer inro with tiger and bamboo. Of rounded rectangular form, decorated in gold and black takamaki-e with a snarling tiger descending from bamboo, with details in mother-of-pearl inlay. With a wood double-gourd netsuke and green cord. 2.9 in. (7.4 cm) high. Showing age cracks to the lacquer consistent with use.

Provenance: Bonhams New York, Sale 24721, “Arts of the Samurai”, October 30, 2017.

Note: Inro were worn suspended from the obi by Japanese men during the Edo period and served as portable containers for seals and medicine. The associated netsuke functioned as toggles, while the sliding ojime beads secured the cords. This group demonstrates the range of lacquer techniques from the functional wares of the Edo period to the highly decorative export styles of the Meiji era.
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