Five-case cloisonné inrō with floral scrolls - Cloisonné enamel, copper - Japan - Meiji period (1868-1912) A five-case inrō worked entirely in cloisonné enamel (yūsen shippō) on a copper body. The surface is covered from top to bottom with a dense pattern of flowers and scrolling vines, outlined in fine copper wire and filled with enamels in turquoise, green, white, lavender and deep red on a rich cobalt blue ground. The decoration continues over the top and the base, so that no plain surface is left unworked. Each case is separated by a fine copper rim, which catches the light against the deep blue. The interiors of the cases are finished in plain turquoise enamel. Cord channels (himotoshi) are pierced at both ends of each case, allowing the cord to pass through the full stack. Cloisonné inrō were made in far smaller numbers than lacquer examples, and their jewel-like colours make them a striking addition to any collection of sagemono. Details Form: Five-case inrō Technique: Cloisonné enamel on copper (yūsen shippō) Decoration: Flowers and scrolling vines on a cobalt blue ground Interior: Plain turquoise enamel Signature: Unsigned Condition Good condition, consistent with age: Light wear to the enamel surface from handling Wear and toning to the copper rims and interior edges Some fine surface marks to the interior enamel Please examine all photos carefully, as they form part of the description. Provenance From a private collection in Japan. Shipping Ships from Kyoto, Japan, via EMS (Japan Post) or FedEx, fully tracked and insured, carefully packed. Import duties and taxes, if any, are the buyer’s responsibility.