This description has been translated and may not be completely accurate. Click here to see the original
INRŌ
Japan
Edo period (1603-1868)
19th century
Lacquer, wood, mother-of-pearl, bone, glass, silk
H. 6.4; L. 5.3 cm
(Old damage)
Four-compartment box in red and gold lacquered wood; decorated with a tree with two plum blossoms - red lacquer and bone; mother-of-pearl flying petals.
Interior of each compartment in black lacquer.
Each compartment conceals two inner side holes where the braided silk suspension link is slipped. The intermediate round bead is called the ojime.
Also known as a medicine box, the inrō is a kimono accessory whose various superimposed compartments made it possible to carry small everyday objects - the kimono being a garment with no pockets.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Ref. number : 6090
Ref: AOE5HIBXB2