Title: Japanese Traditional Wooden Core Ro-urushi Maki-e Raden Bamboo Four-Case Inro with Ojime Dimensions Inro: H 9.0 cm × W 4.5 cm × D 2.7 cm (3.54" × 1.77" × 1.06") Ojime bead: Diameter 1.6 cm (0.63") Total weight: 47.5 g Materials: Wooden core, natural urushi lacquer, gold maki-e, raden mother‑of‑pearl, glass ojime Period: Late Edo to Meiji period (c. 1850–1900, mid-to-late 19th century) This is a classic four-case inro (印籠) from Japan’s late Edo to Meiji era. Constructed on a solid wooden core, it is coated with multiple layers of natural ro‑urushi (溜漆). Adorned with gold maki‑e (蒔絵), raden inlay, and a glass ojime, it represents a fine example of traditional Japanese personal storage and lacquer art, combining practical function and artistic value. The entire surface is decorated using the maki‑e technique: fine lacquer lines first outline bamboo stalks, leaves, and flowers, then various grades of gold powder are applied (combining hira‑maki‑e flat sprinkling and taka‑maki‑e raised sprinkling). After repeated polishing, the design achieves rich layering and a soft, luminous gold finish. The lines are strong yet graceful, vividly capturing the upright elegance of bamboo and delicate charm of foliage, with full, brilliant gold tones. Raden (螺鈿) mother‑of‑pearl is also inlaid: natural shell is carved into small flowers and buds, precisely set into recessed areas and polished flush with the surface. The iridescent sheen shifts with light, creating a beautiful three‑layer contrast with warm gold maki‑e and deep brown ro‑urushi, enhancing depth and elegance against the dark base. Both sides feature bamboo designs: one with a tall, straight trunk accented with leaves and flowers; the other with a diagonal bamboo branch, balancing stillness and movement, embodying the simplicity and Zen spirit of Japanese aesthetics. Topped with a pink‑and‑white striped glass ojime (緒締) and cotton cord, it can be secured to a kimono obi, functional as well as decorative. In Japanese culture, bamboo symbolizes resilience, integrity, and noble character—a classic auspicious motif. Originally worn suspended from the waist (with ojime and netsuke) to hold seals, inro later became personal containers for medicine, incense, and tobacco, representing status and taste among samurai and townspeople in the Edo period. This piece is superbly crafted and well‑preserved, a representative example of Meiji‑period maki‑e lacquerware with rich cultural significance. The deep, warm ro‑urushi base, crisp, full maki‑e patterns, and delicate raden inlay demonstrate the refinement and elegance of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, making it highly desirable for collection and display. With age, the wooden core shows minor bumps, and the lacquer displays natural wear, slight gold oxidation, and light surface scuffs—all consistent with normal age and use. No raden loss, no cracks, no repairs; the overall structure is intact and in good condition. Due to service suspension, Taiwan Post EMS has suspended parcel delivery to the following countries starting March 10, 2026: United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Israel, Pakistan, Maldives, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, Lebanon, Greece, Egypt, Morocco. Bidders from these countries are kindly requested not to bid at this time. Note: Delivery to Italy takes approximately 6–7 days. Customs or the courier may contact you for customs clearance. Kindly reply promptly, as delays may result in the package being returned. Contacting them directly can help speed up the process: dogane.malpensa.urp@agenziadogane.it Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. - The picture is part of the description. The color of the item may be slightly different from the picture (due to camera and screen settings). - The successful bidder will be responsible for any customs duties and taxes (if applicable). - This item will be mailed by the postal service of Taiwan in the form of airmail with insurance attached.